You depend on your heat pump to keep your home comfortable, so when something’s amiss with the unit, you’ll want to call for repairs ASAP. But how do you know if your heat pump is bad? Below, learn about the top signs that it’s time to call us for heat pump repair in Bainbridge, GA.
Top Signs That Your Heat Pump Needs Repair
Weird noises, bad smells, poor airflow — telltale signs like these point to a problem with your heat pump. Here’s how to know if you should schedule heat pump repair.
The System Won’t Turn On
If your heat pump refuses to start, head to your home’s breaker box and check for a tripped breaker. If everything looks good, turn your attention to the unit itself.
If the heat pump won’t heat your home but the cooling function works, or vice-versa, there’s probably an issue with the reversing valve. This part tells the unit to switch between heating and cooling.
A damaged starter capacitor is the second possibility. If you hear a clicking noise from the unit, the starter capacitor needs replacement.
Insufficient Heating or Cooling
Is the system refusing to heat or cool your home? A broken reversing valve may not be the only reason behind a lack of heating or cooling. The system’s air filter may be extremely clogged and need replacement. Depending on the type you have, you’ll typically need to replace or clean it every 30 to 90 days.
Low refrigerant levels may also be to blame. Often, this is due to refrigerant leaks. There may be a crack in the line somewhere allowing refrigerant to seep out. If you see liquid around the base of the unit, call a professional for repairs.
The Heat Pump Makes Unusual Noises
How do you know if your heat pump is bad? Heat pumps are typically very quiet, and the only noise you should hear from yours is a soft hum. If the unit starts making screeching or grinding noises, you’ll need to call a pro for help. Weird sounds could indicate a faulty part, such as a fan belt, or a loose panel cover.
You Notice Bad Odors Coming From the Heat Pump
Your heat pump should never smell bad. If you smell something burning, it may indicate an electrical problem. Musty odors point to mold growing inside the system, while rotting smells may mean that an animal has died somewhere inside.
Before calling a pro, check around the outside of the unit for the source of the stink. If you can’t find it, you’ll need to have a technician open the system and look for the problem.
You Feel Poor or No Airflow Coming Through the Vents
How do you know if your heat pump is bad? Reduced airflow is an obvious sign that something is wrong with your system. Your filter may be dirty and need replacing, or there could be a problem with the blower motor.
Additionally, there may be a clog deep in your ductwork. Without regular cleaning, ducts fill up with debris like dust, hair, cobwebs, and even nests from animals that make their way into your home.
The Heat Pump Repeatedly Turns Off and On
Does your heat pump run for a couple of minutes and then turn off before reaching the temperature on your thermostat? This behavior is called short cycling, and it can have a number of causes, including electrical issues or a dirty air filter. Frequent cycling may also mean that the unit is too small for your home. A technician may recommend that you replace the system with one better suited to your home’s size.
The Unit Runs Constantly
Does your heat pump run non-stop even after hitting the temperature on the thermostat? There could be a problem with the thermostat rather than the system itself. Try recalibrating it and see if the issue stops.
If the unit continues to run constantly, the compressor contractor may be broken. This part controls the power flow to the system. If this part has failed, there’s nothing telling the heat pump to shut off.
Your Energy Bills Are Much Higher Than Usual
Although heat pumps use energy from the air and ground to keep your home comfortable, they also use a bit of electricity. If your energy bills keep creeping up for what seems like no reason, it’s time to call a technician to service your heat pump. High energy bills indicate that it is working harder than it should to keep up with heating and cooling demands.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Heat Pump?
There will come a time when it’s no longer cost-effective to repair your heat pump. Should you start planning for a replacement? Here’s how to tell:
- Your system is 15+ years old. In old heat pumps, it’s not uncommon for several parts to fail at once. It may be cheaper to replace the unit instead of repairing it.
- You’ve had to call a technician for repairs several times over the past couple of years. Frequent repairs indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan.
- The system is too big or small for your home. Repairs won’t resolve a poorly sized unit. Call an expert to help you pick the right-sized heat pump for your house.
- Your heat pump is old and inefficient. If you purchased your system prior to January 23, 2006, it likely has a SEER rating of 10. Currently, heat pumps sold in the U.S. are required to have a SEER rating of at least 13.
Count on Cooper’s Plumbing & Air for Heat Pump Repairs in Bainbridge
How do you know if your heat pump is bad? If you spot any of the above signs, it’s time to call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air. Contact us at (866) 464-7132 to schedule service or read more of our blog to discover the top reasons to replace HVAC filters. Reach out today.