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heat pump problems
heat pump problems

HEAT PUMPS

5 COMMON HEAT PUMP PROBLEMS

07/31/2023

HEAT PUMPS

5 COMMON HEAT PUMP PROBLEMS

07/31/2023

Heat pumps have gained more popularity in recent years because of its energy efficiency and fantastic rebates available in Canada. This versatile device is the key to keeping your living or workspace comfortable all throughout the year. Since it is used for all seasons, your unit works tirelessly to keep you cool or cozy depending on the season. We sure ask a lot of these outdoor units. Our trusty heat pump may have problems along the way and most certainly will require seasonal or annual maintenance to keep up with your needs. So, let’s delve into the 5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems that you may run into. This way, you’ll know what to be on the lookout for to avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Importance of Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

First and foremost, we can’t begin this article without bringing up the importance of regular maintenance. Although you may be getting tired of us mentioning this in several blogs, this service is crucial to ensure that:

5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems

Now that you know why it’s vital to schedule seasonal or annual maintenance of your heat pump, let’s explore the most common problems that you may face along the way.

1 – Not Heating or Cooling Properly

One of the most common calls we get at High Mark is when the unit isn’t providing adequate heating or cooling. Why is it on the fritz?

ISSUE

So, you’ve set your thermostat to your liking, but your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature. It’s mid-winter and you’re cold. What’s going on?

COMMON CAUSES

So, you’ve set your thermostat to your liking, but your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature. It’s mid-winter and you’re cold. What’s going on?

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Before you panic, triple-check your thermostat settings. If all looks as it should and you’re still experiencing inadequate heating/cooling, it’s time to call a professional as it may be something like a refrigerant leak.

2 – Unusual Noise from the Unit

heat pump problems

Another common problem customers experience is unusual noises coming from the unit. Heat pumps are known to make some noises since there is a fan in the unit as well as other components. According to Clean BC, “On average, most modern heat pump outdoor units have a sound rating around 60 decibels, equivalent to a moderate rainfall or normal conversation”. Depending on the unit that you have installed or are interested in, you’ll find various sound level ratings. Additionally, the noise will also depend on whether you’re running your unit at full capacity or on low.

 

If you’re hearing clanging, banging, or screeching sounds coming from your heat pump, that is waving a big red flag to call an HVAC technician for heat pump service.

ISSUE

Something doesn’t sound right. There’s a loud banging coming from my unit and it’s causing distress.

COMMON CAUSES

There may be loud noises coming from your unit due to components that have become loose, lack of lubrication, or possibly a failing part.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

We highly advise customers not to open HVAC units to perform DIY troubleshooting. It may affect or void your warranty. 

3 – Frozen Unit

heat pump problems

Next up, we have frozen units to be another common problem with heat pumps. This is more of a winter concern but in some instances, it may even happen during summer!

ISSUE

It’s mid-summer, why is my heat pump frozen? I don’t need my house turning into an ice cube!

COMMON CAUSES

One of the most common causes of this is condensation. When the warm air meets the coil in your heat pump, condensation will build up. The condensation can freeze if the coil gets too cold.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Look in your owner’s manual and flip to the “defrost cycle” section. You should be able to melt the ice with the Defrost Cycle. Once you notice the ice has melted completely, run your unit again. Cool air should be coming from your vents. If the problem persists, call for service.

ISSUE

My heat pump is frozen and it’s freezing inside my house. We’ve been without heat for 2 days now.

COMMON CAUSES

The most common causes of this are from blocked airflow, low refrigerant levels, or extreme outdoor temperatures.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Look in your owner’s manual and flip to the “emergency heat” section. When you turn this ON, you switch on the backup heating system. Once you do that, call your HVAC specialist to get it looked at.

4 – Unit Constantly Running

Some other calls we receive about heat pump problems are when a unit is constantly running. We know how tirelessly heat pumps work but if your indoor temperature is accurately registering, it should stop running from time to time.

ISSUE

My indoor temperature is the same as the temperature set on my thermostat, but my heat pump won’t stop running.

COMMON CAUSES

Most common causes are incorrect thermostat settings, size of the unit isn’t sufficient for what you require, poor insulation, or lack of airflow from a dirty air filter.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Firstly, check your thermostat settings. If it all looks good, check your air filter. Replace it as needed. And if you’ve tried both but the heat pump is still constantly running, it’s time to call in experts to find the solution.

5 – High-Than-Average Energy Bills

heat pump problems

Last but not least, a common problem the customer has mentioned is high energy bills. Heat pumps are known to be one of the most energy-efficient and cost-effective HVAC units on the market today. So, when you see your bills skyrocket, something is not right.

ISSUE

Usually, my energy bill is $X but last month it jumped up to $X! I haven’t been using my heat pump more than usual, so I don’t know what’s going on.

COMMON CAUSES

Commonly we have found that the main reason is lack of maintenance. It’s recommended to schedule annual maintenance, especially for outdoor units as dust, pollutants, leaves, and other debris can block air flow.

 

Another cause could be because the unit is aging and losing overall efficiency.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

As you are aware, annual maintenance is the best way to keep your unit running as efficiently as possible. This way your bills should remain as usual since your unit doesn’t have to overexert itself to perform as you need.

 

The lifespan of your well-maintained heat pump is on average 15 years. As it approaches 15 years, your system may begin to show signs of aging.

To find out more about our 5 Star Heating & Cooling Service Plan call us today at 604-245-8970 to learn more about how our service plan can save you money.

To find out more about our 5 Star Heating & Cooling Service Plan call us today at 604-245-8970 to learn more about how our service plan can save you money.

In Summary

And there you have it – 5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems and some simple solutions to troubleshoot where you can. To summarize, regular maintenance is the key to most problems. When you stay on top of the minor repairs, component replacement, air filter replacement, and cleaning the unit itself, you can be sure to make your heat pump last as long as 15 to 20 years! Since a heat pump is a fantastic investment for your home or business, take care of it as it takes care of you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for a routine check-up before you run into problems. We hope that this article was useful for you and your wallet! Thank you for visiting High Mark.

Contact High Mark Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling for Your Heat Pump Service

Have you tried our heat pump troubleshooting tips available and are still unsuccessful? Our friendly customer service representatives can assist you with your booking in the Lower Mainland area including Langley, Chilliwack, and surrounding areas.

Heat pumps have gained more popularity in recent years because of its energy efficiency and fantastic rebates available in Canada. This versatile device is the key to keeping your living or workspace comfortable all throughout the year. Since it is used for all seasons, your unit works tirelessly to keep you cool or cozy depending on the season. We sure ask a lot of these outdoor units. Our trusty heat pump may have problems along the way and most certainly will require seasonal or annual maintenance to keep up with your needs. So, let’s delve into the 5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems that you may run into. This way, you’ll know what to be on the lookout for to avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Importance of Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

First and foremost, we can’t begin this article without bringing up the importance of regular maintenance. Although you may be getting tired of us mentioning this in several blogs, this service is crucial to ensure that:

5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems

Now that you know why it’s vital to schedule seasonal or annual maintenance of your heat pump, let’s explore the most common problems that you may face along the way.

1 – Not Heating or Cooling Properly

One of the most common calls we get at High Mark is when the unit isn’t providing adequate heating or cooling. Why is it on the fritz?

ISSUE

So, you’ve set your thermostat to your liking, but your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature. It’s mid-winter and you’re cold. What’s going on?

COMMON CAUSES

So, you’ve set your thermostat to your liking, but your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature. It’s mid-winter and you’re cold. What’s going on?

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Before you panic, triple-check your thermostat settings. If all looks as it should and you’re still experiencing inadequate heating/cooling, it’s time to call a professional as it may be something like a refrigerant leak.

2 – Unusual Noise from the Unit

heat pump problems

Another common problem customers experience is unusual noises coming from the unit. Heat pumps are known to make some noises since there is a fan in the unit as well as other components. According to Clean BC, “On average, most modern heat pump outdoor units have a sound rating around 60 decibels, equivalent to a moderate rainfall or normal conversation”. Depending on the unit that you have installed or are interested in, you’ll find various sound level ratings. Additionally, the noise will also depend on whether you’re running your unit at full capacity or on low.

 

If you’re hearing clanging, banging, or screeching sounds coming from your heat pump, that is waving a big red flag to call an HVAC technician for heat pump service.

ISSUE

Something doesn’t sound right. There’s a loud banging coming from my unit and it’s causing distress.

COMMON CAUSES

There may be loud noises coming from your unit due to components that have become loose, lack of lubrication, or possibly a failing part.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

We highly advise customers not to open HVAC units to perform DIY troubleshooting. It may affect or void your warranty. 

3 – Frozen Unit

heat pump problems

Next up, we have frozen units to be another common problem with heat pumps. This is more of a winter concern but in some instances, it may even happen during summer!

Scenario 1
ISSUE

It’s mid-summer, why is my heat pump frozen? I don’t need my house turning into an ice cube!

COMMON CAUSES

One of the most common causes of this is condensation. When the warm air meets the coil in your heat pump, condensation will build up. The condensation can freeze if the coil gets too cold.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Look in your owner’s manual and flip to the “defrost cycle” section. You should be able to melt the ice with the Defrost Cycle. Once you notice the ice has melted completely, run your unit again. Cool air should be coming from your vents. If the problem persists, call for service.

Scenario 2
ISSUE

My heat pump is frozen and it’s freezing inside my house. We’ve been without heat for 2 days now.

COMMON CAUSES

The most common causes of this are from blocked airflow, low refrigerant levels, or extreme outdoor temperatures.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Look in your owner’s manual and flip to the “emergency heat” section. When you turn this ON, you switch on the backup heating system. Once you do that, call your HVAC specialist to get it looked at.

4 – Unit Constantly Running

Some other calls we receive about heat pump problems are when a unit is constantly running. We know how tirelessly heat pumps work but if your indoor temperature is accurately registering, it should stop running from time to time.

ISSUE

My indoor temperature is the same as the temperature set on my thermostat, but my heat pump won’t stop running.

COMMON CAUSES

Most common causes are incorrect thermostat settings, size of the unit isn’t sufficient for what you require, poor insulation, or lack of airflow from a dirty air filter.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Firstly, check your thermostat settings. If it all looks good, check your air filter. Replace it as needed. And if you’ve tried both but the heat pump is still constantly running, it’s time to call in experts to find the solution.

5 – High-Than-Average Energy Bills

heat pump problems

Last but not least, a common problem the customer has mentioned is high energy bills. Heat pumps are known to be one of the most energy-efficient and cost-effective HVAC units on the market today. So, when you see your bills skyrocket, something is not right.

ISSUE

Usually, my energy bill is $X but last month it jumped up to $X! I haven’t been using my heat pump more than usual, so I don’t know what’s going on.

COMMON CAUSES

Commonly we have found that the main reason is lack of maintenance. It’s recommended to schedule annual maintenance, especially for outdoor units as dust, pollutants, leaves, and other debris can block air flow.

 

Another cause could be because the unit is aging and losing overall efficiency.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

As you are aware, annual maintenance is the best way to keep your unit running as efficiently as possible. This way your bills should remain as usual since your unit doesn’t have to overexert itself to perform as you need.

 

The lifespan of your well-maintained heat pump is on average 15 years. As it approaches 15 years, your system may begin to show signs of aging.

To find out more about our 5 Star Heating & Cooling Service Plan call us today at 604-245-8970 to learn more about how our service plan can save you money.

To find out more about our 5 Star Heating & Cooling Service Plan call us today at 604-245-8970 to learn more about how our service plan can save you money.

In Summary

And there you have it – 5 Most Common Heat Pump Problems and some simple solutions to troubleshoot where you can. To summarize, regular maintenance is the key to most problems. When you stay on top of the minor repairs, component replacement, air filter replacement, and cleaning the unit itself, you can be sure to make your heat pump last as long as 15 to 20 years! Since a heat pump is a fantastic investment for your home or business, take care of it as it takes care of you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for a routine check-up before you run into problems. We hope that this article was useful for you and your wallet! Thank you for visiting High Mark.

Contact High Mark Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling for Your Heat Pump Service

Have you tried our heat pump troubleshooting tips available and are still unsuccessful? Our friendly customer service representatives can assist you with your booking in the Lower Mainland area including Langley, Chilliwack, and surrounding areas.

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The information contained in https://highmarkplumbing.com  is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by https://highmarkplumbing.com  and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to https://highmarkplumbing.com   or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on https://highmarkplumbing.com   for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of https://highmarkplumbing.com.

DISCLAIMER

The information contained in https://highmarkplumbing.com  is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by https://highmarkplumbing.com  and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to https://highmarkplumbing.com   or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on https://highmarkplumbing.com   for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of https://highmarkplumbing.com.