Heat pumps are incredible machines, but they have their problems, just like any HVAC equipment does. Because we know a lot of homeowners have made the switch to a heat pump and are currently experiencing using one for the first time, we wanted to outline some of the most common issues you might run into with a heat pump. We see these when we perform heat pump service in Cincinnati, OH for our customers, so let’s talk about problems to be on the lookout for.
Thermostat Calibration Issues
As it turns out, one of the biggest issues heat pump users run in to isn’t with the heat pump itself–it’s with the thermostat. These issues are on the smaller side and can be fixed with minimal effort.
Your thermostat communicates with your heat pump. The thermostat reads the air temperature, and when it gets too high, it will tell your heat pump to start cooling. This is a simple signal that either turns your heat pump’s cooling function on or off. The technical work is done at the thermostat.
But because your heat pump relies on that communication, how your thermostat gathers information is important. If it’s miscalibrated, it might be reading a 72° F room as 70° F, which means it’s getting hotter than you’d like, but your thermostat isn’t reading it properly. Recalibrating it will help.
Refrigerant Leak
If this happens, it’s not a DIY solution; it’s something that has to be handled by an HVAC technician ASAP. Refrigerant is a chemical that’s potentially lethal if you interact with it, and if you have small children or pets, the risk increases.
Thankfully, most refrigerant leaks do not enter the home, but a refrigerant leak does act like a ticking time bomb in your heat pump. When refrigerant leaks, it can cause your condenser coil to freeze up, which will cause severe damage to your heat pump. This has to be checked and repaired by a technician.
Coils Are Dirty
The condenser coil is an important part of your heat pump. When it gets coated in dust over time, the dust acts as insulation and seriously impairs its ability to transfer heat into cool air. Cleaning your coils can immediately improve efficiency.
Dirty Air Filter
The flow of air in your heat pump is imperative to its functionality, but if your air filter is dirty and clogged, it makes it harder to pull air in. Cleaning your filter is a good option, but it should be replaced every 30-90 days depending on use. Air filters are the most commonly overlooked fix to many problems with heat pumps and other types of HVAC equipment.
Always Call for Repairs
When your heat pump runs into trouble, it’s always best to contact a technician to help you with whatever the issue(s) may be. We’re just a phone call away, and ready to help you with every one of your heat pump-related problems. Now that you know how to identify what’s wrong, you’re more equipped than ever before to monitor and maintain your home’s heat pump system.
Contact JM Mechanical Heating & Cooling today to schedule your heat pump repair as soon as possible.