Imagine you’re out on a cold and dreary day and can’t wait to get home, turn on the heat, and finally relax. You switch the thermostat to “heat” and…nothing. What gives?
Like any system in your home, it’s not unusual for your air source heat pump to experience problems from time to time. In some cases, knowing some basic troubleshooting steps can alleviate the need to call a professional and get that warm air moving through your home in no time. Of course, when in doubt, you should never hesitate to contact Eagle Service Company.
With that in mind, here are 5 common reasons your heat pump might not be heating, and what you can do about it.
1. Incorrect Thermostat Setting
The simplest cause for your heat pump not heating could be an issue with the thermostat. If it’s set to “cool” mode, the system will be attempting to cool your home, not heat it. Similarly, if the temperature setting is too low, the heat pump may not engage. Check your thermostat settings to ensure it’s set to “heat” mode and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, ensure it’s not on a schedule that may be preventing the system from running.
2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which can cause the heat pump to overheat or fail to heat effectively. When airflow is blocked, the system struggles to pull in air and distribute it properly, leading to reduced heating capacity. Turn off your heat pump and inspect the air filter. If it’s dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one.
3. Frozen Outdoor Unit
In colder temperatures, the outdoor coil of the heat pump can freeze up, preventing the system from transferring heat from the outside air into your home. This is particularly common when there’s high humidity or debris blocking airflow around the outdoor unit. Check the outdoor unit for visible ice or frost buildup. If you see ice, turn the system off and let it thaw.
4. Defrost Cycle Issues
Heat pumps operate in both heating and cooling modes, and during cold weather, they need to periodically enter a defrost cycle to prevent ice buildup on the outdoor coils. If the defrost cycle isn’t working properly, it can affect the heat pump’s ability to heat your home. If your system seems stuck in defrost mode or ice is not melting, this may indicate a problem with the defrost control or sensor. Call a technician to inspect and repair the issue.
5. Refrigerant Leak
Heat pumps rely on refrigerant to transfer heat from the outside air to the inside of your home. A refrigerant leak can reduce the system’s heating ability or cause it to fail entirely. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, you’ll need to contact a professional HVAC technician.
When to Call Eagle Service Company
If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t solve the problem, or if you’re not comfortable taking the DIY approach, contact Eagle Service Company. For heating system maintenance, repairs, and installation, Eagle is at your service.
