Four Common Heat Pump Issues and How We Can Fix Them

Four Common Heat Pump Issues and How We Can Fix Them

You rely on your heat pump to keep your home warm and cozy in the winter and cool in the summer. When it isn’t functioning properly, you’ll be uncomfortable. Black Lion Heating & Air Conditioning can help diagnose and fix common issues that keep the heat pump from functioning properly.

1. Heat Pump Isn’t Turning On

If your heat pump isn’t starting, it could be one of the following issues.

Thermostat Is Wired Incorrectly

We’ll check your thermostat to see any alerts and ensure it’s showing the correct setting. If you have an older thermostat, it could be a model that can’t work with heat pumps. If so, we’ll need to replace it for you. If it’s a newer model, we’ll need to check the wiring.

No Power Source

A significant amount of power is needed to run your heat pump. This could result in a tripped circuit breaker. If it continues to trip often, we’ll look for bigger underlying problems. During the colder months, a frozen blower can trip the circuit breaker.

You Need the Starter Capacitor Replaced

The starter capacitor sends an electrical charge to the heat pump’s motor. We’ll listen for a clicking sound that indicates a faulty starter capacitor. If this is why your heat pump isn’t turning on, we’ll replace it for you.

A Faulty Reverse Valve

Your heat pump’s reverse valve is why it blows nice warm air during winter and cool air during summer. Your heat pump won’t turn on when it malfunctions because it can’t switch from hot to cold. We’ll replace this valve to help avoid these issues.

Clogged Condensate Drain

As your heat pump runs, it pulls moisture from the air. The heat pump has a condensate drain that keeps this fluid from collecting.

As the condensate drain does its job, it collects contaminants from your system. This buildup can create a clog, which may shut the heat pump down. Many heat pumps include a float switch that turns the system off when it detects a backup of moisture.

2. A Constantly Running Heat Pump

If your heat pump is constantly running, it could be due to one of the reasons discussed below.

Demanding Too Much From the Thermostat

If you set the thermostat for extreme heating or cooling, the heat pump will run continuously to achieve your desired temperature. This causes it to overwork. We can help you find the ideal setting for your comfort and the heat pump’s functionality.

Dirty Air Filters

Your heat pump could be running nonstop due to dirty air filters. If they haven’t been changed every few months, they could be clogged with pet dander, pollen, dust, and other debris.

The air can’t flow through a dirty air filter. This forces your heat pump to work harder as it tries to force that air through. We can inspect these filters and change them for you.

Dirty Coils

Heat pumps include two coils responsible for warming and cooling your home. Dirt and debris can build up on them over time, which causes them to be less efficient. When the coils are dirty, the heat pump runs longer and harder to keep you comfortable. We can clean your heat pump’s evaporator and condenser coils annually in order to avoid this issue.

Leaking Refrigerant Line

Heat pumps use refrigerant to heat and cool the air. When the refrigerant is leaking, your heat pump will have problems. The heat pump struggles to reach your desired temperature as the refrigerant dwindles. Signs of a refrigerant leak include increased indoor humidity and higher utility bills. We can locate and repair this leak for you.

A leak will cause the refrigerant levels to be low. When this happens, the heat pump won’t be able to cool your home. We’ll look for leaks, especially near connector points, and repair them.

A Broken Compressor

The compressor controls the power going to your heat pump. Once it breaks, the heat pump won’t turn off. We can look at your compressor and replace it if necessary.

3. Heat Pump Isn’t Cooling

A heat pump won’t cool your home if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. We can diagnose the following additional complications.

Thermostat Not Communicating

If your thermostat is set properly but the heat pump isn’t cooling your home, it may not communicate your desired temperature to the heat pump. We’ll troubleshoot these issues and make the necessary repairs.

A Broken Reversing Valve

The reversing valve is responsible for moving hot air outside when in cooling mode and bringing hot air inside when heating your home. When the heat pump blows warm air while set on cool, we may need to replace the reversing valve.

Heat Pump Needs Cleaned

Over time, dirt can build up on the components in your heat pump. Just like with a constantly running heat pump, dirty coils prevent the heat pump from cooling. We can schedule routine maintenance services to avoid these issues, during which we’ll clean and inspect the entire system.

4. Heat Pump Won’t Heat Your Home

If your thermostat is set correctly and still doesn’t heat properly, we’ll look for the following issues.

Fan Runs Continuously

Your heat pump won’t heat your home properly if the fan runs nonstop. We’ll set your fan to auto mode and the settings to heat to get everything functioning correctly once again.

A Blockage

A vent that is blocked by leaves, ice, or snow will cause the heat pump to struggle and stop working efficiently due to poor airflow. We’ll check your house’s exterior and clean these things up.

A Faulty TXV HVAC Valve

Your heat pump needs refrigerant to heat your home. When the refrigerant is low, the heat pump blows cool air. If the TXV HVAC valve is at fault, we’ll fix it.

Leaks in the Air Ducts

While you may think all issues are located within the heat pump, there could be an issue with the ducts. They could be leaking. Signs of this include excessive dust in your home, hot and cold spots, and high energy bills.

Your Heat Pump Experts

[company _name] can help you with all of your heat pump needs in Seattle. We have been serving the area’s heating and cooling needs for over 20 years. In addition to heat pump maintenance, repair, and replacement, we offer ductless mini-split air conditioning systems for all of your multi-zone cooling needs. Our fully licensed, NATE-certified technicians put customers first, which has led to our high ratings.

We work with products from many different makes, models, and brands. This includes Mitsubishi Electric, AprilAire, Bryant, and REME HALO. Our technicians can also provide you with air purifying solutions for better indoor air quality. We offer free air quality and energy consultations to determine exactly how to best handle your unique situation. We’ll even help you find the perfect water heater for your home, clean your ducts, and assist with gas fireplaces.

Contact Black Lion Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about our heat pump services and all of our other offerings.