Common Issues with Heat Pumps and Their Solutions

Heat pumps are the perfect solution for managing our varying hot and cool seasons because of their excellent energy efficiency and dependability. However, they also differ slightly from other, more prevalent forced-air furnaces or air-conditioning systems. When trying to solve problems, a homeowner frequently finds themselves scratching their heads.

You've come to the correct place if you're seeking more details on typical heat pump issues and fixes; the qualified HVAC experts at HVAC Repair Guide are here to assist you.

Heat Pump Is Always Running

You're probably used to the brief, sharp cycles of a gas furnace or an electric central air conditioner. However, heat pumps really run quite slowly and gradually; it's not uncommon for them to run continuously in harsh weather or for extended periods of time.

However, you might need to call for assistance if your heat pump is running nonstop while chugging, sputtering, or failing to satisfy your home's comfort requirements. If not, let the machine operate.

Frost & Ice on the Outdoor Unit of the Heat Pump

Due to the refrigeration cycle, heat pumps frequently produce a tiny quantity of ice on the exterior unit. For this reason, heat pumps have a defrost mode that periodically activates to keep the system clear of extra ice. But! In some circumstances, your system could completely freeze over or be coated in ice.

Sometimes, this may have been a minor blip, and the ice can be eliminated by running a constant stream of water, turning off the system, or both. Never use a blunt or sharp object to remove ice! Your outdoor unit's fins are relatively delicate, and each bent fin reduces the system's efficiency a little bit.

Water is Leaking from the Indoor Unit of the Heat Pump

The indoor handling of condensate and draining by your heat pump is the same as that of other HVAC systems; a drain line and drain pan should gather all runoff water and direct it outdoors. You should have the heat pump serviced if there is a leak. You're most likely dealing with a blocked drain line, a condensate drain pan that is damaged, or another drainage issue.

Heat Pump Refuses to Change From Heat to Cool

Reversing valves are a common component found in heat pumps. This is what changes the heat pump's operation from drawing air out of your house to drawing air in (to put it another way, from cool mode to heat mode). An older heat pump's valve can easily jam or completely break, which is one of the more frequent issues. In these scenarios, you'll require heat pump repair because the valve will need to be replaced by a specialist.

Before dialing for an emergency heat pump repair, always double-check your thermostat to make sure all settings are accurate. Unintentional user errors occur more frequently than you may imagine.

Heat Pump Testing and Repair in Northern Virginia

HVAC Repair Guide has been serving local Northern Virginia homeowners since 2002. Whether you require heat pump repair, heat pump maintenance, or a response to an inquiry about how your system functions, we’re always glad to lend our knowledge.