Why Isn't My Heat Pump Blowing Out Hot Air?

Heat pumps are reliable, two-in-one heating and cooling machines. Modern cold climate heat pumps are energy efficient in cold climates and long winters. Still, a system can have problems, sometimes at the most inconvenient times.

If your heat pump isn’t heating when you need it to, what do you do? What might be the reason? Here are some quick fixes that might resolve the problem.

Reasons a Heat Pump Is Blowing Cold Air

Some problems with a heat pump, even ones that seem major, can be fixed with a little work. Others will need a call to a professional. Here are some common problems which can stop a heat pump from giving you heat. 

Dirty, clogged filters

It may seem like a mundane task you might not get around to, but a clogged air filter can restrict a heat pump's airflow, stopping it from heating your home as it’s built to. 

Changing air filters every 1-3 months, as recommended, and necessitated by specifics in your home like pets, allergens, how much your heat pump runs, and your local air quality, keeps your system running as it should. It also has long-term benefits like fewer repairs and a longer life expectancy before you need to buy a new system.

Check your thermostat

It may be too obvious, but check what your thermostat is set to. Is it set to “Heat” or “Auto” like it should be? Also, if you had a power outage, your thermostat could need a reset.

Check the electrical panel

It’s possible the circuit to the heat pump has tripped and needs to be reset in your electrical panel. The indoor and outdoor units of the system might be on different circuits.

Check the outdoor unit

Debris, foliage, snow, or ice can block airflow to the outdoor unit. This can usually be cleared away without much problem. Ice can build up on the coils. If the system’s defrost cycle isn’t removing the ice, then you’ll need to call a professional to work on the coil or the defrost cycle.

Pro level jobs

If you can’t determine the problem, or if the repair is going to need electrical, mechanical, or chemical work, it’s time to call a professional. 

The refrigerant in a heat pump can need a recharge, or refill, or there may be a refrigerant leak. A professional must handle, recharge, and dispose of refrigerant gas. A heat pump may slow or shut down because of component issues like a faulty reversing valve, a malfunctioning compressor, a broken capacitor, or a malfunctioning emergency heat setting.

How a Heat Pump Can Work for You

Using a heat pump for your home heating and cooling is the most energy-efficient system for a vast majority of homes. Heat pumps also provide two-in-one functionality that can replace a central AC and a furnace. Even in areas of the country where heat pumps couldn’t handle the winter in past years, cold climate heat pumps are now the best option for many homes. 

Maintenance and service are important to benefiting fully from that comfort and efficiency. One way to make the upkeep easy, and within your budget, is with a heat pump lease. A lease gets you a heat pump for no money down and all heat pump maintenance, service, and repairs, for one predictable monthly payment.

If you’re interested in learning more about heat pumps, and if going to one is a fit for your home, you can start by using our home HVAC advisor or by contacting us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do heat pumps heat and cool your house?

Yes, this is one of the major energy-saving and money-saving benefits of a heat pump. Heat pumps transfer heat into your home or out of your home for energy-efficient heating and cooling year-around. 

How do I get a heat pump repaired?

In general, after simple checks of your filter, thermostat, and around your outdoor unit, a local HVAC professional is the best place to start. A heat pump lease from Palmetto includes all maintenance, service, and repairs.