Similar to all appliances, the heat pump might have difficulty working optimally. Maybe it has issues when you turn it on, or it doesn’t heat up appropriately. On the other hand, maybe the heat pump no longer cools down after use. That said, here are the common heat pump problems and solutions for these issues.
Power loss
A faulty breaker can cause power loss. So, check to ensure all the breakers are working perfectly. But if this is an ongoing problem, then your heat pump has an electrical issue that needs to be fixed. Find professional assistance to keep the heat pump properly serviced.
Thermostat issues
Check whether the programmable thermostat has been set correctly. If the readings seem current, there may be a small miscalibration issue that prevents the thermostat from adjusting the heat pump correctly. Or, there’s an electrical issue that prevents the heat pup from communicating efficiently with the thermostat. Either way, you should hire a professional to service your heating pump.
Broken reversing valve
Often, the reversing valve works to allow your heat pump to function as an air condition and heater simultaneously. When the heat pump automatically turns on if you need cool air, but doesn’t work for heat, then your device is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Broken starter capacitor
Try to listen to the heat pump attentively for a few minutes. If you hear a clicking noise when you turn on the heat pump, then the starter capacitor is faulty. As you well know, the capacitor is the one responsible for transmitting electrical charge used to turn the motor.
If the heat pump isn’t blowing hot air, here are some of the main causes:
Dirty air filter
Unknown to many, air filters work to catch debris and dirt but when too much build up, this can easily block airflow, affecting the function of the compressor that heats the air. Check the filter occasionally and replace it if it’s too dirty.
Blocked unit
If your unit has a blocked pathway caused by leaves, ice, debris or snow, it can be difficult for the heat pump to function optimally. If that is the case, clean the heat pump to remove any debris or dirt that might be blocking the path.
Conclusion
The best way to ensure your heat pump works optimally is by having it serviced regularly by an HVAC technician. This will help to fix some of the minor issues that can prevent your heat pump from working efficiently.
References: HVAC.com, Arnica HVAC Blog, Aristair