Most Common Heat Pump Problems

As the fall arrives, the heat pump HVAC unit gets into work as it gives the cooling system a rest as these units are called for heating. They are also called home heating solutions and are known for their energy efficiency and dependability. Heat pumps in the HVAC system combine the functions of the heater and air conditioner into one unit. In short, they use the same system of cycling refrigerant, unlike AC.

When the cold months arrive, you can experience heat pump issues that can stand in the way of heating your home. These heat pumps generate warm air as well as cool air. These days, especially in cold nation’s heat pumps, they are becoming a famous alternative to conventional heating appliances as they can efficiently heat and cool the home.


So, if you own a heat pump and take excellent care of it, you may face several issues, which you can fix on your own. But if you don’t maintain it, the heat pump can stop working for various reasons, putting your safety and property in danger. It is said that leaving anything unattended frequently can offer a variety of difficulties down the road.

Let’s find out some of the most common heat pump problems and how to avoid them?

1. In The Heat Mode, The Heat Pump Is Blowing Cold Air

First, check whether your heat pump is in heating mode or cooling mode when it is blowing chilled air. However, if the weather outside is frosty, it may also be in defrost mode. If it’s not the case, your heat pump will start regular operation after the defrost cycle is complete within 10 to 15 minutes.

Moreover, if this is not the case, check the pump’s filthy air filters to see if it blasts chilled air. The reason is that anything that obstructs airflow has the full potential to reduce the heat pump’s efficiency. The most common cause of blasting chilly air is dirty air filters. Still, there can be additional causes like debris stuffing the outer unit or dirty coils that need a professional electrical contractor in Riverside.

2. Heat Pump Cycles Incorrectly.

If your home heat pump is turning on and off frequently, it could be a problem with the thermostat. That means either the thermostat is not adjusted correctly or it’s malfunctioning. This problem can be fixed by recalibrating or replacing the thermostat.

In most cases, the heat pump can suffer from a clogged filter, which prevents the heat pump from blowing warm air correctly. If this is the case, you must clean the air filter or replace it. Moreover, in some of the cases, there can be issues of defective fans or faulty valves.

So, fixing these small issues is relatively easy. Open the heat pump manual or Google video tutorial and follow the instructions.

3. The Heat Pump Runs All The Time.

If you notice that your heat pump is running all the time, it’s a matter of concern. However, if the temperature outside is quite chilly, it is normal for the heat pump to run for a long time. But if it is running around the clock, there may be some issues like:
  • Dirty air filters indeed have the power to restrict airflow through the unit, which forces the heat pump to run for a long time to supply warm air to the home. So, check the filter and replace it if you find them dirty and covered with contaminants.
  • Every type of air leak, window frames, door jambs, etc., can be problematic areas where your home is getting cold air. Because of this, your home’s temperature will lower and force the pump to run longer periods to offer warm air. You can eliminate this issue by air sealing and duct sealing.
  • If the heat pump is running around the clock, ensure all the supply vents and return air registers at your home are fully opened and unblocked. In some cases, these vents are accidentally covered by rungs, furniture, and other items, which automatically restricts the airflow through the home.

4. A Heat Pump Is Not Running.

If you are noticing that your heat pump is running or has stopped running, then there are a few easy steps that you can follow to fix the problem. But in some cases, calling the best electrician in Riverside is the best option to diagnose the issue.

Some of the reasons why the heat pump is not running:

Power Loss

Both indoor and outdoor units have separate power switches. So, first, check the power switch near the indoor unit and ensure it is on. After that, check the power switch of the outdoor unit and see if it’s on. Finally, check your house’s electrical panel and look for a blown fuse, or do you have a tripped circuit breaker.

Dirty Air Filters

If the heat pump air filters are clogged and filthy, the unit gets fresh air because the heat pump has to work overtime to maintain the appropriate temperature. In case the load increases, it can overheat the pump and shut down.
Remove air filters and hold them up against the light source to fix the issue. If you see the obstructed air filters, clean them with soapy water and let them dry.

Faulty Starter Capacitor

The starter capacitor of the heat pump delivers power to the motor to drive the pump as it offers a burst of energy to turn the unit on. If the heat pump starter capacitor breaks, the pump will not turn on.

Moreover, if you notice a faint sound coming from the heat pump when you are trying it on, it indicates your starter is faulty. Ensure you don’t replace the starter yourself even if the power is disconnected as it holds the electric charge, which can electrocute you. That means calling electrical services (Riverside) will be a wise choice.

Faulty Reversing Valve

The reversing valve plays an essential role that allows the heat pump to cool and heat the home. If the reversing valve is faulty, the heat pump can turn on in heating mode but not in cooling mode or vice-versa. However, if the pump only turns on for one of the modes, contacting an electrical contractor in Riverside of EZ Eletric is the best option.

Closed Registers

If you own a ducted heat pump, check all the registers are open and unobstructed. If the registers are obstructed due to any furniture or clogged with dirt, the heat pump will also not run.

5. A Heat Pump Is Leaking Liquid.

If you notice mold growth on your home walls that is near the heat pump, there can be a leakage problem. According to experts, don’t ignore a heat pump leaking liquid. Apart from mold growth, stagnant water inside the heat pump can also cause electrical damage.

Some of the reasons for leakage are: –

The Drain Line Is Clogged

When the heat pump is in cooling mode, it draws humid air from the home to cool. This process results in condensation, which means condensate travels to the condensate pan and then is drained through the drain line.

If the condensate pan has any cracks by chance, water will surely leak through it. Moreover, if the drain line is clogged, the water will overflow. So, if you don’t know the fix, then calling a professional will be a wise option.

Refrigerant Leak

If your heat pump has a refrigerant leak, then there are chances ice can build up on the evaporator coils. Due to this, the efficiency of the heat pump will hamper. Because of this, when you turn off your heat pump, the ice melts, causing the heat pump to leak.

6. Weird Smells

The sense of smell is one of the best tools through which you will come to know your heat pump needs troubleshooting. Some of the common reasons for the weird smell from the heat pump are:

Animal Infiltration
If the heat pump smells like a rotten egg, an animal may have crawled in and died. To fix this, take off the cover and see whether you can remove the carcass yourself or not. If you can, then it is good to clean it. If not, contact the best electrician in Riverside who will do it for you.

Electrical Issues
If your heat pump smells like burning, there are chances of severe electrical problems inside the unit like damaged wire or failing motor. Never ignore the burning smell and turn off the circuit breaker as soon as possible and call an HVAC professional to find the cause of the smell.

Mold Growth
If you smell a musty odor, there are total chances of mold growth inside the heat pump or in the surrounding walls on which the heat pump is installed. In this case, turn off the heat pump so that no mold spores can circulate in the home. You can clean the mold yourself, but if not, call electrical services in Riverside to do the needful at an affordable price.

The Bottom Line
These are some common problems that you can address yourself depending upon your skills. If not, you can contact the professional of EZ Eletric and book an appointment to receive assistance with heat pump issues. They will cater your electrical needs efficiently while aiming to meet your expectations.

Source: Most Common Heat Pump Problems

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