Troubleshooting Common Heat Pump Issues:
Heat pumps are one of the most reliable ways to heat and cool homes in Auburn, WA, providing year-round comfort and efficiency. Unlike furnaces or AC units, a heat pump works by transferring heat instead of generating it, which makes it more energy-efficient. But like any HVAC system, there can be common issues that require attention. Some heat pump problems are simple to troubleshoot, while others may need repair or professional installation service.
This heat pump troubleshooting guide covers common heat pump problems, troubleshooting tips for homeowners, and insights into heat pump maintenance that can extend the life of your HVAC system.
How Heat Pumps Work
Troubleshooting Common Heat Pump Issues: Heat pumps don’t create heat; they transfer heat. In winter, the heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air and moves it inside. In summer, the process reverses to cool your home.
Key components of the heat pump system include:
- Outdoor heat pump unit – Contains the compressor and coil that move refrigerant.
- Air handler (indoor unit) – Blows conditioned air into your home.
- Refrigerant – Circulates between indoor and outdoor units to transfer heat.
- Thermostat – Signals the HVAC system to switch from heat to cool as needed.
Understanding the heat transfer process makes it easier to diagnose the problem if your heat pump isn’t working correctly.
Common Heat Pump Problems and How to Troubleshoot
Heat Pump Not Turning On
When your heat pump won’t start, the issue could be as simple as a tripped breaker or thermostat issues.
Troubleshooting steps:
- Check thermostat settings and ensure the mode and the fan are correct.
- Inspect the breaker and reset if needed.
- Make sure the power switch near the air handler is on.
- If the heat pump doesn’t start, it could be an electrical issue requiring an HVAC technician.
Heat Pump Not Heating or Cooling Properly
If the heat pump is running but not heating or cooling your home effectively, airflow or refrigerant levels may be the problem.
Possible causes:
- Dirty air filter restricting airflow.
- Low refrigerant levels due to a leak.
- Outdoor heat pump blocked by debris, snow, or ice.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Replace or clean the air filter.
- Clear debris around the outdoor heat pump.
- If refrigerant levels are low, call an HVAC professional for repair.
Heat Pump Running Constantly
While heat pumps are designed to run longer than furnaces, the system shouldn’t run nonstop.
Causes:
- Thermostat setting too extreme.
- Poor insulation or duct leaks.
- Undersized heat pump system.
Homeowner fixes:
- Adjust thermostat settings moderately.
- Seal drafty doors and windows.
- If the issue continues, have an HVAC technician check the system sizing.
Strange Noises from the Heat Pump
A well-maintained heat pump should operate quietly. If you hear unusual sounds coming from your heat pump, it may signal a deeper issue.
Common sounds:
- Grinding – Worn motor bearings.
- Clicking – Electrical issues.
- Hissing – Low refrigerant.
- Banging or rattling – Loose components or debris.
If noises persist, schedule heat pump repair before they cause larger problems.
Heat Pump Freezing in Winter
It’s normal to see frost, but if the outdoor heat pump is fully iced, airflow is blocked.
Troubleshooting steps:
- Check that the heat pump defrost cycle is working.
- Remove snow or ice from around the unit.
- Ensure gutters aren’t dripping water onto the outdoor heat pump.
- If ice remains, call an HVAC professional to inspect refrigerant levels and defrost controls.
Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air in Heat Mode
If your heat pump doesn’t switch properly from heat to cool or blows cold air when in heat mode, the issue could be airflow or a stuck reversing valve.
Troubleshooting steps:
- Replace dirty filters.
- Clear debris around the outdoor unit.
- If the heat pump isn’t fixed, the reversing valve may need repair by a technician.
Preventing Heat Pump Issues with Maintenance
Troubleshooting Common Heat Pump Issues: Troubleshooting steps can fix common problems, but regular heat pump maintenance prevents them from occurring.
Homeowner checklist:
- Change air filters every 1–3 months.
- Keep the outdoor heat pump clear of dirt, leaves, and snow.
- Check thermostat settings regularly.
- Listen for strange noises or smells coming from your heat pump.
Professional maintenance includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels and fixing low refrigerant.
- Cleaning coils for proper heat transfer.
- Testing electrical connections.
- Calibrating thermostat settings.
When to Call a Professional
Some heat pump issues can’t be solved with DIY troubleshooting. Call a certified HVAC technician if:
- The heat pump won’t turn on.
- Ice continues to form on the outdoor unit.
- Strange noises or smells persist.
- You notice a refrigerant leak.
In Auburn, WA, Air Pro Solutions provides expert heat pump repair, cleaning, installation, and maintenance to keep HVAC systems working efficiently.
Conclusion
Heat pumps are efficient systems that can heat and cool homes year-round. However, occasional problems such as the heat pump not heating, the system running constantly, or the outdoor unit freezing can occur. With a good troubleshooting guide and basic maintenance, homeowners can often fix common heat pump problems before they get worse.
When troubleshooting steps don’t solve the problem with heat pumps, a professional HVAC technician ensures proper repair and long-term performance. Whether you need a new heat pump, routine maintenance, or emergency repair, expert help will keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
Follow Air Pro Solutions LLC on Instagram
