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Nothing is as frustrating as having a heat pump not heating your home. It’s even worse when you need extra heat during those cold winters. But don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! Fortunately, there are a few steps that you can take to troubleshoot and fix your heat pump.
Herein, we’ll look at signs that indicate an unhealthy system and how to troubleshoot. Additionally, we’ll check on professional maintenance and when it might be necessary to replace the entire unit. Read on to learn more about what you need to know about heat pump heating failure and how to fix it.
Common Causes of Heat Pump Not Heating
Here are some of the most common causes for a heat pump not heating up:
Refrigerant Leaks
This kind of error can cause the system to lose its ability to effectively transfer heat from one area to another. This can lead to efficient and effective heating, resulting in adequate temperatures or no heat.
To diagnose this issue, technicians will use special equipment such as a thermometer and pressure gauge to detect any loss of refrigerant levels within the system. If you notice a leak, it is essential to have it repaired by a professional contractor like Aquarius Home Services before the system can function correctly again.
Blocked Air Filters
Having a clogged air filter is another common heat loss problem. When air filters become clogged with dirt and debris, they restrict airflow throughout the unit. Ideally, a dirty air filter reduces efficiency and performance significantly over time.
To prevent this from happening, regularly check your air filter for blockages. Replace them when necessary according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Again, consult your technician where need be.
Faulty Thermostat Settings
Faulty thermostat settings are also known culprits of heat pump inefficiency. So double-check all thermostat settings on both manual and digital models. Ensure they’re set correctly according to your desired indoor temperature; otherwise, things could get chilly!
Frozen Coils
Another possible reason why most heat pumps may not be functioning optimally is due to frozen coils inside the unit itself. This is usually caused by poor ventilation around where it’s installed outside (eaves, troughs, etc.).
The frozen coils will then reduce airflow through them, leading directly to reduced efficiency performance overall. This means there will be less warm air or cold air coming out into living spaces indoors than expected desired too!
4 Ways to Troubleshoot & Fix a Heat Pump That is Not Heating
Having known some of the possible causes of a heat pump, not heating, here are the steps you should take to troubleshoot and fix your unit:
Check the Thermostat Settings
The first step is to check the thermostat settings. If you have a manual model, ensure it’s set to heat mode and the temperature setting is correct. If you need help determining the right temperature, consult your user manual or call an HVAC technician for assistance.
For digital models, ensure all settings are correct and working as they should be.
Test Your Circuit Breaker
The next step is to ensure there isn’t an issue with the circuit breaker. You can check this by going to your home’s main electrical panel and ensuring the heat pump’s circuit breaker switch isn’t tripped or off. If it is, switch it back on and see if that has fixed the problem.
Check Your Air Filter
Air filters are essential to any HVAC system and must be changed regularly to keep the unit running properly. If you still need to do so, now would be an excellent time to clean or replace them. This will help improve the movement of hot, cool, or cold air throughout the system. In turn, it will reduce strain on components such as coils, and reversing valves and improve overall efficiency.
Inspect the Outdoor Unit
Lastly, you should inspect the outdoor unit of your heat pump. Ensure that no obstructions (leaves, debris, etc.) block the airflow into and out of the team. Additionally, ensure that all components, such as fans and coils, are in good condition. Contacting a technician for further inspection and repairs is best if parts look worn or damaged.
Signs of an Unhealthy Heat Pump System
Sometimes, despite frequent troubleshooting and repairs, your heat pump won’t work as it should. In such cases, consider replacing the entire system. Here are some signs that indicate an unhealthy system:
Unusual Noises
A heat pump system that is operating normally should be relatively quiet. If you hear loud or unusual noises coming from the unit, it could be a sign of an unhealthy system. This could include grinding, squealing, rattling, or banging sounds.
Uneven Heating or Cooling
An uneven temperature distribution usually means cool air or hot air leaks in the ductwork must be addressed immediately before further damage occurs. It’s essential to have these issues fixed promptly so that your home remains comfortable and energy efficient.
High Energy Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in utility costs without any changes in usage habits, then it’s likely due to inefficient operation caused by an unhealthy system. Have a professional inspect your unit for potential repairs and maintenance needs as soon as possible to avoid wasting money on unnecessary expenses each month!
Poor Air Quality
The unit might have poor indoor air quality due to dust buildup. When this happens, allergens like pollen and pet dander can easily circulate through your home. This may end up causing respiratory irritation for those living inside it.
When to Call a Professional?
If you still have issues with your heat pump not heating up properly after taking all these steps, it’s probably time for professional maintenance. Aquarius Home Services technicians can come in and perform a thorough inspection of your system.
This will help to identify any underlying problems that might be causing the issue. Additionally, they can make any necessary repairs to get your system running again.
Conclusion
Dealing with a heat pump not heating up is frustrating, but hopefully, at this point, you know what’s causing the issue and how to troubleshoot and fix it. If all else fails and you still have problems with your heat pump, contact Aquarius Home Services today! We have experienced technicians who can provide professional heat pump repair, maintenance, or replacement services.