9 Warning Signs Your Heat Pump Is Failing

Your heat pump is crucial to living comfortably in any season. So, you'll want to know the moment your heat pump fails so you can fix it.

Keep reading to discover the nine signs your heat pump is failing. If you notice one of them, contact Hickory Heating & Cooling, the best provider of expert heat pump repair in Hickory, NC. Call us at 828-827-5224.

1. Ice Forming

Whether ice forms in the summer or winter, it's a problem for your heat pump. If it's winter, a thin coat of ice isn't necessarily a problem; the unit has a defroster that should melt the ice. However, if the ice is thick or covers the entire unit, it poses a severe issue for your heat pump.

If you see ice in the summer, even if it's a thin layer, it's always problematic. The three primary causes of summer ice are a refrigerant leak, dirty coils, or a clogged air filter.

While a professional can repair the unit, if you keep running it, your heat pump might require complete replacement. Turn it off until a technician fixes the issue.

2. Consistent Cycling

When your unit shuts on and off, regardless of the temperature or settings, professionals call it cycling. Cycling can cause the heat pump to overheat, damaging it beyond repair. Several things can cause this issue, including a faulty thermostat, dirty air filters, or a damaged heat anticipator.

3. It's Noisy

Heat pumps usually operate with a loud hum. But if you notice any unusual noises, it's time to call an HVAC professional. Bad noises include screeching, buzzing, rattling, flapping, grinding, or in some cases, bubbling.

The problems can range from a loose belt to a poorly lubricated fan or leaking refrigerant.

4. It Smells

Does the air blowing from your heat pump smell weird? If so, it's time to call a professional.

Must and rotting smells are common, as they indicate either a mold problem or a dead animal, respectively. However, the most serious is a burning smell. Turn off the unit immediately, and don't turn it back on until a professional service technician solves the problem.

5. It's Not Blowing Air

One of the most obvious signs your heat pump is failing is when it stops blowing air. First, check the thermostat and set the fan switch to "on" or "auto." If that doesn't work, you have a problem with your limit switch or plenum. These components move the heated air into your air ducts. Alternatively, the problem might reside in a broken belt.

6. Increasing Utility Bills

Do you notice your energy bills skyrocketing even if you're not using your heat pump more than normal? Several issues cause this; the problem might even occur elsewhere in your HVAC system. Only a professional can diagnose and fix the issue.

When your utility bills increase, call a professional immediately. You'll save money in the long run with regular maintenance and repairs.

7. Filter Problems

Air filters can cause a multitude of problems, which is why you should replace or clean them at least every three months. Depending on your filter type, you may need maintenance on it every 30 days.

Signs you need to address your air filter include weak airflow, lukewarm air, or a decrease in air quality (signs of which include worsening allergies or respiratory issues). 

8. Frequent Circuit Tripping

Your heat pump shouldn't require enough power to trip your circuit breaker. While tripping circuits are normal for severe weather or surges in your local power grid, they shouldn't happen in your house.

If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it indicates serious electrical issues. The problem might be within your heat pump, or it could be with your electrical system as a whole. For example, knob and tube wiring is vulnerable to power surges and fires.

If you suffer from power surges, shut off the unit and call an HVAC specialist and an electrician.

9. Poor Temperature Regulation

Your heat pump should heat and cool every room equally. If you notice warm or cool spots in your house, you could have problems with your air filter, thermostat, refrigerant, or a clog somewhere in your ducts.

Call Hickory Heating and Cooling for All Your Heat Pump Needs

Now you know all the signs your heat pump is failing. Whether you need to know about heat pump electrical requirements or expert repairs, contact Hickory Heating & Cooling. We'll get you living in comfort once again.

Call 828-827-5224 to schedule an appointment today.