Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s likely to experience some issues every now and then.
Let’s review these issues and how much they might cost to fix, so you’ll have some idea before you call an HVAC technician. Some of the most likely 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 Won’t Turn On
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 changing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the proper setting? If you want air conditioning, 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 higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, put in new the batteries if the screen appears 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 appropriate breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter blocked? A dirty air filter is difficult for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to replace it.
If these steps don’t correct the problem, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc..
Estimated Repair Cost
This issue can be complicated, so how much it costs to fix it will depend on what’s wrong.
2. Heat Pump Won’t Turn Off
If it’s extremely hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to reach your desired temperature.
If the weather is normal, check that your thermostat is set properly and running normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will run 24/7. So, it’ll appear as though your heat pump is running all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels in check, 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 appropriate for your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which controls the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be linked to many issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how difficult it is.
3. Heat Pump Won’t Defrost
Occasionally 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 heavily iced over may struggle to heat your home or shut down altogether.
Here are a few reasons why this might be taking place:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have sufficient airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, producing an icy buildup.
- A part is malfunctioning, which may include 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 notice a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor close to the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we talked about before, there are a few 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 problem.
- 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 higher priced since it’s no longer being made.
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 associated to many problems. We advise checking for:
- Correct thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing faulty 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 reviewed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have an issue 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 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 manufactured.
- 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 install 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 check your new thermostat by changing 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 communicating with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which requires a reset.
It’s wise to have a heating and cooling professional 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 greatly on what type of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, they lack the advanced features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Won’t 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:
- 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 help of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is hard to reach since it’s located 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 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 made.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Fix Your Heat Pump Problems Quickly and Affordably with Our Help
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you contact Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc.. Our pros have been delivering the quality, affordable heat pump repair Branchville homeowners have depended on since {year}. Get in touch with us at 862-345-6896 to secure your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.
