Heat pumps are ideal for homes in moderate climates to cool the house in summer and keep it snug and cozy in summer. The best part is that heat pumps can be used throughout the year and offer an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioners and furnaces.
Just like air conditioners and furnaces, heat pumps require proper maintenance and care to work efficiently and prevent major problems. However, even after that, the pumps can develop issues, especially if the weather turns too cold or hot and causes the pump to work overtime. It is better to call an expert at Furnasman Right Time to solve any trouble that you might be facing rather than trying to solve it on your own. Here are some of the most common problems that can develop in heat pumps.
Heat Pump Suddenly Stops Producing Heated or Cooled Air
If you find that your heat pump suddenly stops heating or cooling your home, check the thermostat. It may be switched off or not set to heat or cool. It could be something as simple as this. Sometimes, the problem may occur if you have recently replaced the thermostat. Most of the time, installing an incorrect thermostat or not wiring it correctly can prevent the heat pump from functioning. When the circuit breaker trips, it can stop the heat pump from working. Resetting the circuit breaker should get the pump working without any hassles.
Heat Pump Doesn’t Produce Sufficient Heat or Cooled Air
At times, you may find that the heat pump is not heating or cooling your home as it should. If this is the case, check the air filter, coils, and fans. When these components get dirty, they obstruct the flow of air. Reduce airflow results in the heat pump underperforming. Make sure you inspect the air filter once a month. If it is dirty, replace it with a new one. You should also clean the other components of the heat pump; switch off the fan and clean it. Check the outdoor unit and remove any vegetation growing around it.
Heat Pump Makes Weird Sounds
Rattling sounds coming out of the heat indicate that some hardware is loose and needs to be tightened. Sounds can also emanate if the register is out of place. In case you hear a grinding or squealing noise coming from the heat pump, contact an HVAC technician right away. The sounds indicate that the motor bearings have worn out and need to be replaced.
Heat Pump is Not Cooling
When the level of the refrigerant is low in your heat pump, it will not cool. It is best to get a trained and qualified professional to check the refrigerant level. If it is low, it needs to be replenished based on the guidelines stipulated by the US EPA.
Heat Pump is Blowing Cold Air in Winter
Heat pumps do not heat air as much as furnaces so if your town or city is experiencing an unusually cold winter, the heated air from the heat pump may not be sufficient to warm up your home. If the outdoor temperature is not severely cold and your heat pump suddenly starts producing cold air, check whether it has gone into defrost mode. When that happens, it can produce cold air for a short period of time.
Heat Pump is Incorrectly Cycling
Sometimes, you may find that the heat pump switches off and on too often. This is a sign that the pump is overheating, which can occur due to a malfunctioning blower or because of clogged air filters. Cleaning the air filter or replacing it will resolve the problem. If the blower is malfunctioning, you will need an HVAC technician to fix the problem.
These are some of the common problems that develop in heat pumps. If you notice one of these problems, it is best to get a qualified technician to diagnose the source of the issue and fix it so that your heat pump can function the way it is meant to.
