How Do You Diagnose A Heat Pump Problem?
Heat pumps are popular among people seeking heating and cooling for their homes because of their efficiency, which substantially lowers energy usage. Heat pumps operate by transferring heat from one place to another instead of generating it themselves. In the winter, a heat pump extracts heat from the air or ground outside and moves it inside. This process is reversed in the summer, removing heat from your home and transferring it outside.
Despite how effective and energy-efficient heat pumps can be, they are not without problems—like with any other HVAC equipment. There are many reasons your heat pump is not working, and knowing what to look for is key. If you’re having trouble with your heat pump, contact our experts at Equi-Tech Mechanical!
7 Signs Why Your Heat Pump Isn't Working
- Thermostat Setting: The first thing you should check is your thermostat setting. It’s possible that your heat pump was accidentally turned off or set to the wrong mode. When the temperatures are too low or high, it will have to run frequently to maintain the temperature in the house.
- Outdoor & Indoor Unit: If your thermostat is set correctly and your heat pump still isn’t working, the issue could be with the outdoor unit. Check to see if snow or debris is blocking the unit. Next, check the indoor unit, and make sure nothing is blocking the airflow, such as furniture or drapes.
- Dirty Filters: The airflow always needs to be unobstructed; if the air filters are clogged, the air will not flow through the house well. This will put a strain on the heat pump and can damage it. It would be best if you replaced the filters every two to three months.
- Refrigerant Leaks: One of the most common heat pump issues is refrigerant leaks. When there’s a leak, it reduces the amount of heat that can be transferred, making your heat pump less effective. This is a dangerous issue so you’ll want to call our professionals for heat pump repairs as soon as possible.
- Dirty Coils: Another common issue is dirty coils. The coils need to be cleaned for the heat pump to work properly. Over time, they can get covered in dust and dirt, which reduces their effectiveness. If you’re having trouble with your heat pump, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Search for a heat pump service near me to get the best results in your area.
- Low Refrigerant Levels: Your heat pump needs refrigerant to transfer heat properly. If there’s insufficient refrigerant, the heat pump will have to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear. If this is the case, you’ll need to have a professional inspect your system for leaks, repair it, and recharge your system.
- Frozen Evaporator Coil: The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing the heat from the air. If this coil gets frozen, it won’t be able to do its job properly. One way to prevent this is by making sure the outdoor unit is clear of any snow or debris. Another way to thaw a frozen evaporator coil is by turning off the heat pump and running just the fan for a few hours.
If you’re having trouble with your heat pump or need an installation, don’t hesitate to call Equi-Tech Mechanical! Heat pumps are a sizable investment, and you want to ensure the job is done correctly. Search for heat pump installers near me and you’ll find our experts.
