Your heat pump is an essential part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s bound to encounter some issues every now and then.
Let’s examine these issues and how much they might cost to fix, so you’ll have some idea before you contact an HVAC technician. Some of the most likely heat pump repair problems include:
- Heat pump won’t turn on
- Heat pump won’t turn off
- Heat pump won’t defrost
- Heat pump won’t cool
- Heat pump won’t turn on after changing thermostat
- Heat pump won’t heat
1. Heat Pump Isn’t Turning On
There are lots of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we recommend checking all of them. Sometimes they are as simple as restoring a thermostat setting or changing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the right setting? If you want cooling, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the current temperature. If you want heating, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should be greater than the current temperature. If you use a programmable thermostat, replace the batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
- Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to run if it lacks power. Reset the matching breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter clogged? A dirty air filter is problematic for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to replace it.
If these steps don’t correct the problem, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc..
Estimated Repair Cost
This issue can be complicated, so how much it costs to correct it will depend on what’s wrong.
2. Heat Pump Can’t Shut Down
If it’s extremely hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to achieve your desired temperature.
If the weather is normal, check that your thermostat is set properly and operating normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will run 24/7. So, it’ll appear as though your heat pump is working all the time. Constantly using the blower can keep humidity levels under control, but it’ll also drive up your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set correctly, there are a few other issues that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:
- A new thermostat that isn’t appropriate for your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which controls the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be linked to a few issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how difficult it is.
3. Heat Pump Won’t Defrost
Every now and then during cold weather, your heat pump will briefly go into cooling mode. This will dissolve light frost and ice that naturally builds up on the coils. A heat pump that becomes totally frozen may struggle to heat your home or shut down altogether.
Here are several reasons why this might be happening:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have sufficient airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, creating an icy buildup.
- A part is not working, which may consist of the reversing valve, relays, controls or sensors.
- The outdoor fan motor is damaged, dying or dead.
- Your heat pump has a refrigerant leak. This is likely if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you discover a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor near the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we discussed before, there are a few reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a few estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the degree of the issue.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
4. Heat Pump Isn’t Cooling
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be associated to many issues. We recommend checking for:
- Right thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing awry with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need assistance from an HVAC technician to identify a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we discussed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have an issue with its reversing valve, outdoor fan motor or a refrigerant leak.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total expense may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the scope of the problem.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
5. Heat Pump Has Trouble Turning On After Upgrading the Thermostat
If your heat pump won’t turn on after switching the thermostat, the problem is probably linked to your new thermostat. While you can install just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t true for heat pumps, especially if you have backup or emergency heating.
You can test your new thermostat by changing the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor start in your air handler, there’s probably an issue with the thermostat.
A couple other common thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done wrong.
- Thermostat isn’t interacting with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which requires a reset.
It’s wise to have a heating and cooling pro recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll stay away from any compatibility or wiring problems.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends greatly on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, they lack the advanced features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Isn’t Generating Heat
A heat pump that won’t heat is connected to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We recommend checking for:
- Appropriate thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the help of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is tricky to reach since it’s placed behind walls and several issues can cause your heat pump to freeze up.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent of the problem.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is higher priced since it’s no longer being made.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Fix Those Heat Pump Problems Quickly and Affordably with Our Help
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you contact LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc.. Our professionals have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Shamokin and Sunbury homeowners have relied on since 1990. Get in touch with us at 570-648-0748 to secure your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.