If you have a heat pump system, now's the time to watch for malfunctions. If your heat pump fails, you could get left in the cold this winter. Routine maintenance will help extend the life of your heat pump. But, even with regular maintenance, problems can pop up. When heat pump issues do pop up, you need to be ready. Read the list provided below. If you encounter any of these problems this winter, call for repairs right away.
No Hot Air Through Vents
If you can't feel heat through the vents, there's a good chance that your heat pump needs repairs. Lack of heat through the vents can be caused by a couple of problems. Before you call for repairs, check the filter. A dirty filter can stop air from getting through the vents. If that's not the problem, you need to call for repairs. If there's no hot air flowing through the vents, you could have a broken reversing valve. Or, there could be low refrigerant levels. An HVAC contractor can take care of those problems for you.
Ice Is Restricting Airflow
If you don't have any airflow from the heat pump, it's time to head outside. This is especially important if you've been dealing with freezing temperatures. Your heat pump could have developed a layer of ice. If you see ice on the coils, use a blow dryer to melt the ice. Your heat pump should start working again. If it doesn't, call for repairs as soon as possible. The ice buildup could have damaged the internal components of your heat pump.
Auxiliary Heat Stays On
If the auxiliary heat comes on from time to time, the system is working properly. The auxiliary heat comes on during the defrost cycle. It also comes on to regulate temperatures. But, if your auxiliary heat comes on and stays on, it's time to call for repairs. With the auxiliary heat constantly running, your heat pump could overheat. Before that happens, have your heat pump repaired.
Heat Pump Emits Foul Odors
If you've got foul odors coming from the heat pump, it's time to do a quick inspection. During the winter, animals can climb inside the heat pump for warmth. If that's happened, you'll need to clean your heat pump. If that's not the case, you'll need to call for repairs. Burning odors can be a sign that your heat pump has issues with the electrical system. Musty odors can be a sign that there's mold growing inside the heat pump system. Both issues require immediate repairs.
Contact a professional to learn more about heat pump repair.
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