What’s better than a heat pump?! A single system to both heat and cool your home—like a dream come true! Not to mention the lower energy bills and how seamlessly it works year-round. But what happens when your heat pump isn’t working as it should?
Maybe it’s not heating enough in the winter, not cooling properly in the summer, or making noises that are anything but normal. These issues can throw off your comfort, but the good news is that many heat pump problems can be easily identified and resolved. Let’s dive into some of the most common issues and how to troubleshoot them.
Not Heating or Cooling Properly
Have a system that’s not getting your home quite up to the temperature you’ve set on the thermostat? Talk about frustrating (not to mention uncomfortable). This could be something as simple as a dirty air filter blocking airflow or an incorrect thermostat setting.
To troubleshoot the problem, you can start by checking the filter—if it’s clogged, clean or replace it. Next, double-check your thermostat to make sure it’s set to the right mode (heating or cooling) and temperature.
All look good? It’s time to call the professionals. They’ll be able to give your system a thorough inspection and get to the bottom of things. Many times, the problem here ends up being a refrigerant issue or a malfunctioning component.
The System Won’t Turn On
Duh, right? Of course you’ve got a problem on your hands if the system flat-out refuses to turn on! The root cause is a lot less obvious, though, so we’ve still got some troubleshooting to do if we wanna get to the source of the problem.
First, check your thermostat—make sure it’s set to the correct mode and that the batteries aren’t dead. Next, head to your circuit breaker to see if it’s tripped. If it is, let Morris-Jenkins know. We’ve gotta team of electricians we can send your way to get to the bottom of why the breaker tripped.
If everything looks fine and the heat pump still won’t start, it could be a wiring issue or a faulty starter capacitor. These are jobs for a professional technician, like the team at Morris-Jenkins, so don’t try to DIY your way through it. They’ll figure out what’s going on and have your system running in no time.
You Hear Strange Noises
We’ll be the first to admit your heat pump is usually never completely silent while it’s running. You’ll usually hear a low buzzing noise or a faint hum. These are completely normal and signs your heat pump is running well!
Banging, rattling, or squealing noises often mean something’s loose, worn out, or in need of lubrication. Start by checking for any visible debris around the outdoor unit that might be causing the racket.
If the noise continues, it could be a sign of a bigger issue, like a loose fan blade or a problem with the motor. Don’t ignore it—call a Morris-Jenkins to prevent further damage and keep things running smoothly.
The System is Freezing Up
Ice can develop on your heat pump, even in the middle of summer—crazy, huh? This means something’s off, though, and it’s not something to ignore. Ice buildup usually happens when airflow is restricted or the refrigerant levels are low. Start by checking your air filter—if it’s dirty, clean or replace it. Next, take a look at the outdoor unit and make sure there’s no debris blocking airflow.
If the ice doesn’t melt or keeps coming back, the problem could be with the refrigerant or the defrost cycle. At this point, it’s time to call in a professional—like Morris-Jenkins!
It’s Short Cycling
Got a heat pump that doesn’t finish a cycle once it starts one? That’s no good for anyone. Short cycling—when your heat pump constantly turns on and off—can be a sign of trouble. Not only is it frustrating, but it’s also hard on your system and can drive up your energy bills.
Start with the basics: check the air filter. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to shut down prematurely. Next, make sure the thermostat isn’t too close to a heat source or set incorrectly.
If those fixes don’t work, it could be something more serious, like low refrigerant, a faulty compressor, or an oversized system. These are all issues that should only be handled by a trained professional.
Need a Heat Pump Repair in Charlotte? Turn to Morris-Jenkins!
Dealing with heat pump issues is a fast way to ruin anyone’s day (or week… or month). Don’t let it keep you from enjoying your home any longer!
Give Morris-Jenkins a call or contact us online for heat pump repairs in Charlotte. Our professional repairs will get your heat pump back up and running in no time.
