If you’ve converted to a heat pump after owning a central furnace or air conditioner, you’re undoubtedly happy with its performance. More and more homeowners are switching to these two-in-one systems with little regret about their decision.
Although it may seem like your shiny new heat pump will never experience problems, it’s still a major HVAC system that needs routine maintenance and the occasional repair every now and then. Let’s go over some common heat pump repairs and what causes them so you can avoid the need for frequent heat pump repair.
1. It Won’t Switch Modes
Have temperatures skyrocketed and your heat pump is blowing hot air instead of cold air? The likely culprit is the reversing valve. This component is what allows your heat pump to change from heating to cooling and vice versa. A broken reversing valve is an easy fix for a professional HVAC technician.
2. Reduced Airflow or Lukewarm Air
Hold your hand up to a vent to gauge the output and the temperature of the conditioned air coming from your home’s ductwork. If it’s lukewarm, or if it’s cold/hot but very weak, these aren’t good signs. The airflow should be strong and steady, and the air should be decidedly hot or cold.
You can try changing the air filter to see if that helps. If not, these issues should be addressed sooner rather than later. It’s no use paying for conditioned air only for it to be lackluster. There could be a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system which is not only potentially unhealthy, but will also cause your utility bills to increase as the system struggles with performance.
3. Short Cycling
Short cycling occurs when your heat pump is unable to complete a cycle. it will turn on for 5-10 minutes, then turn itself off just abruptly, and it keeps repeating this problematic behavior throughout the day.
This is an urgent repair need for many reasons. The first is that it keeps the heat pump from cooling down or heating your home adequately. The second is that it greatly increases the wear and tear on the system. Give us a call so we can fix a short cycling heat pump promptly.
How Can I Avoid the Need for Heat Pump Repairs?
We’re glad you asked that. The absolute best way to avoid heat pump repairs is to schedule maintenance twice a year–ideally, once before the heating season and once before the cooling season. Regular tune-ups are how you can get ahead of any potential problems down the line.
We know that with our shortened cooling season here in the Pacific Northwest, you might be tempted to think that getting maintenance once a year is sufficient. If you’ve only used your heat pump as an air conditioner for a couple of months, give us a call so we can advise you on the ideal maintenance schedule.
Count on the team with the most experience. Contact the team at Sunset Air for heat pump repair in Olympia, WA today.
