Typical Heat Pump Problems and Solutions

Heat pumps are the best way to control our hot and cold seasons because they use energy very efficiently and last a long time. But they are also slightly different from other forced air furnaces or air conditioning systems used more often. Homeowners usually find themselves scratching their heads when attempting to fix issues.

If you're looking for more information about common heat pump problems and their fixes, HVAC Repair Guide's certified HVAC specialists are ready to help.

The heat Pump Runs Constantly.

The quick, sharp cycles of a gas heater or an electric central air conditioner are probably nothing new to you. Heat pumps, however, actually operate slowly and gradually; it's not unusual for them to run continuously in adverse conditions or for an extended period.

But if your heat pump keeps running and chug-chugs, sputters or doesn't keep your home warm enough, you may need to call for help. If not, allow the device to run.

Frost and ice may be seen on the heat pump's outdoor unit.

Heat pumps frequently produce a small amount of ice on the outer unit due to the refrigeration cycle. Heat pumps include a defrost mode that periodically operates to keep the system free of additional ice. But! Your system may occasionally become fully iced over or frozen solid.

Sometimes, this might have been a momentary blip, and the ice can be removed by turning the system off, running a steady stream of water, or both. To remove ice, never use a pointy or sharp instrument! Your outdoor unit's fins could be more powerful, and each one that gets bent makes the system less effective.

You should schedule a heat pump repair if your heat pump freezes frequently or twice in a single season. This shouldn't be happening and likely indicates a ventilation or refrigerant issue.

The Heat Pump's Indoor Unit is Leaking Water.

Your heat pump will handle condensation and drain it indoors like other HVAC systems. All runoff water should be collected in a drain line and drain pan and directed outdoors. If there is a leak, the heat pump needs to be serviced. You most likely have a clogged drain line, a broken condensate drain pan, or a similar drainage problem.

The Heat Pump Won't Switch From Heat to Cool

In heat pumps, reversing valves are a common component. This causes the heat pump to operate differently, bringing air into your home instead of pulling air out (to put it another way: from relaxed mode to heat mode). One of the most common problems with older heat pumps is that the valve can get stuck or break completely. In these situations, you'll need heat pump repair because a professional will need to replace the valve.

Before calling for an emergency heat pump repair, you should always check your thermostat to ensure all the settings are correct. Unintentional user error occurs more frequently than you might think!

Repairing and troubleshooting heat pumps in Northern Virginia

Homes in Northern Virginia have benefited from HVAC Repair Guide's services since 1978. Whether you need heat pump maintenance, repair, or a description of how your system operates, we are always happy to share our knowledge.