6 Common heat pump repairs & why it happens, Home heating essential fixes advice, Property care

6 Common Heat Pump Repairs & Why it Happens

27 June 2024

Today, more and more homeowners understand the need to install heat pump systems. In the US, the number of primary heat pump systems has drastically increased from 9.1 million to 17.2 million between 2005 and 2022.

However, heat pumps also require proper maintenance and care and if you fail to do that, it can result in frequent breakdowns.

But despite regular maintenance, if your heat pump is still malfunctioning and you can’t understand why, this guide will help. So come on, let’s get started!

1. Leaks in the refrigerant

The refrigerant fluid is one of the most important components of heat pumps as it helps absorb and dissipate heat in the right amounts.

The refrigerant must work well in both summer and winter to maintain optimal indoor temperature. But if the refrigerant system leaks, you can expect minor problems with your heat pump.

Eventually, the leaks might damage your compressor, and your house won’t warm up or cool down the way you want it to. You should contact an HVAC professional to have it checked.

2. Thermostat wiring problems

Another common problem that many homeowners face is that the thermostat wiring wasn’t done properly while the heat pump was being installed.

For example, if you keep getting error messages on the thermostat display or if the heat icon is not marked on it, it can mean that the wiring in the thermostat system is faulty.

Sometimes, if your thermostat is of an older version, then it might not be compatible with the modern heat pump system. But if that is not the case and the error message still keeps popping, check the wires connecting the two systems.

3. Incorrect temperature settings

This might sound pretty obvious, but many people often use the wrong temperature settings, which causes a mismatch between the displayed temperatures and the heating/cooling inside the house.

This usually happens if the heat pump mode hasn’t been switched from heating to cooling or vice versa to match the temperature change.

Check the temperature settings, and if the problem still occurs, it can be caused by the thermostat’s direct exposure to sunlight.

4. The heat pump is running constantly

One common reason why this might be happening is because of the accumulation of dirt and debris in the air filters or AC coils. The amount of dirt being collected in the coils will again depend on the kind of place you live in.

For example, a heat pump installation in Seattle is expected to gather more dust and dirt particles as compared to one in a quiet suburban neighborhood.

Clogged air filters or AC coils need to be thoroughly cleaned once every few months. Open the HVAC system or ask a professional to do it, inspect the different coils, and give them a good cleaning.

5. The Outdoor unit has frost on it

The outdoor unit is where heat is absorbed during the summer and released during the winter. During winters, it’s common for this unit to develop a thin layer of ice or frost over it.

Usually, your heat pump system automatically runs a defrosting system to get rid of the frost. If the frost stays on the outdoor unit for a long time, the entire heating system will break down.

If you’re going through a situation where the layer of frost doesn’t seem to melt, you have to contact a heat pump professional right away. This issue can put a lot of strain on the outdoor unit, leading to a complete malfunction.

6. It is making weird sounds

Heat pumps require a lot of energy to run properly, so it’s natural that they might occasionally emit strange sounds.

However, the frequency of these sounds is important. If it constantly makes a rattling noise, it means that one or more parts have become loose and need inspection. Check every part and tighten the ones that seem to have loosened.

If the system makes a loud banging sound from time to time, it usually indicates that a small piece has become dislodged and is now repeatedly hitting the fan blades. Turn off the pump and inspect if any part has become dislodged.

Common heat pump repairs Conclusion

These are just a few of the many heat pump repairs that you might encounter. Other common issues people face include poor air distribution, broken reverse valves, and unappealing smells coming from the system. If you’re facing anything similar, call your local professional immediately.

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