Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it provides year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s likely to have some problems once in a while.
Let’s examine these problems and how much they might cost to repair, so you’ll have some idea before you call an HVAC technician. Some of the most common 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 Isn’t Turning On
There are a lot 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 replacing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the proper setting? If you want cooling, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the ambient temperature. If you want heat, 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 lacks 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 fix the issue, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Anderson Heating & A/C.
Estimated Repair Cost
This problem 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 run longer than normal to achieve your desired temperature.
If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set correctly and running 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 using 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 problems 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 controls 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 elaborate it is.
3. Heat Pump Won’t Defrost
Occasionally during cold weather, your heat pump will temporarily go into cooling mode. This will melt light frost and ice that naturally accumulates on the coils. A heat pump that becomes heavily iced over may struggle to heat your home or shut down completely.
Here are a few reasons why this might be taking place:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have enough airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, causing an icy buildup.
- A part is not working, which may involve 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 likely if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you notice a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor around the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we mentioned before, there are many reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a number estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the severity 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 uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being made.
4. Heat Pump Can’t Produce Cool Air
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many issues. We advise checking for:
- Right thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty 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 diagnose a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we reviewed 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 severity 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
5. Heat Pump Isn’t Starting After Upgrading the 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 need 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 start in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.
A couple other common thermostat problems involve:
- Wiring was done incorrectly.
- Thermostat isn’t interacting 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 stay away from any compatibility or wiring problems.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, they lack the sophisticated features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Isn’t Generating Heat
A heat pump that won’t heat is linked to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We encourage checking for:
- Appropriate thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the help of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is hard to reach since it’s found behind walls and several 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 level of the concern.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind 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.
Fix Your Heat Pump Problems Right Away with Help from Local Experts
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be annoying, but not when you call Anderson Heating & A/C. Our professionals have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Carson City homeowners have relied on since 1984. Contact us at 775-577-8761 to secure your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.