Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it produces year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s certain 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 typical 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 Can’t Start
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 fixing a thermostat setting or swapping 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, put in new the batteries if the screen looks jumbled or blank.
- Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to turn on if it does not have power. Reset the corresponding 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 get a new one.
If these steps don’t correct the issue, you’ll need to call a heating and cooling company like Central Air LLC.
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 very hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to reach your desired temperature.
If the weather is typical, 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 go 24/7. So, it’ll sound like your heat pump is running all the time. Constantly running 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 compatible with your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which regulates the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be linked to a lot of issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how complex it is.
3. Heat Pump Can’t Remove Ice Buildup
Every now and then during cold weather, your heat pump will temporarily go into cooling mode. This will dissolve light frost and ice that normally accumulates on the coils. A heat pump that becomes totally frozen may have difficulty heating your home or shut down altogether.
Here are several reasons why this might be happening:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have enough airflow because it’s blocked by snow, bushes or yard debris.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, causing an icy buildup.
- A part is malfunctioning, 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 possible if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you discover a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor close to 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 extent 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
4. Heat Pump Won’t Cool
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many issues. We recommend checking for:
- Ideal thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing wrong 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 a problem 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 issue.
- 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 Won’t Turn On After Changing 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 use 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 switching the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor running in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.
A couple other typical thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done incorrectly.
- Thermostat isn’t communicating 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 avoid any compatibility or wiring issues.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, they are missing the advanced features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Can’t Work in Heating Mode
A heat pump that won’t heat is linked to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We recommend checking for:
- Correct thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the assistance of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is hard to reach since it’s placed behind walls and numerous 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 issue.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump runs on. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being produced.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Fix Those Heat Pump Problems Right Away with Help from Local Experts
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you call Central Air LLC. Our professionals have been delivering the quality, affordable heat pump repair Brookfield homeowners have depended on since 2003. Contact us at 203-357-5913 to secure your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.