Your heat pump is an essential part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s certain 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 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 Won’t Turn 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 easy as restoring a thermostat setting or replacing 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 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 use 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 operate if it doesn’t have power. Reset the matching breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter blocked? 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 Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co..
Estimated Repair Cost
This problem can be complex, 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 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 working all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels under control, but it’ll also increase your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set properly, 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 controls the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be related 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 briefly 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 blocked by snow, bushes or yard debris.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, creating an icy buildup.
- A part is not working, 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 likely if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing noises. Or if you find a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor around the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we mentioned before, there are a few reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are several 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 produced.
4. Heat Pump Isn’t Cooling
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many problems. 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 charge may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the severity of the concern.
- 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 Malfunctions After Changing Thermostat
If your heat pump won’t turn on after changing the thermostat, the problem is probably connected to your new thermostat. While you can install just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t accurate for heat pumps, especially if you have backup or emergency heating.
You can test 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 an issue with the thermostat.
A couple other typical thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done wrong.
- Thermostat isn’t interacting with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which involves a reset.
It’s recommended 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 greatly 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 Won’t Heat
A heat pump that won’t heat is connected to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We suggest checking for:
- Correct 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 located 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 level 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 higher priced since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Fix Any Heat Pump Problems Right Away with Help from Local Experts
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be irritating, but not when you get in touch with Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.. Our pros have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Haines City homeowners have depended on since 2005. Contact us at 863-216-2923 to get your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.