The best way to stay ahead of the problems that can occur with your heat pump is to know what to watch for. Heat pumps face a unique set of issues that are different from other HVAC systems. When you know what potential problems are and the signs of each one, you can stay ahead of a heat pump breakdown by calling us to schedule service once you notice that something is wrong.
When you stay ahead of heat pump problems with Eugene heat pump repair, you do more than just prevent a breakdown. You’re also investing in the longevity of your system as well as the energy efficiency both now and over its entire lifespan. You can keep reading to learn more about three problems that are unique to heat pumps and how you can identify them.
Reversing Valve Issues
One problem that is completely unique to a heat pump is an issue with the reversing valve. This is a component that allows your heat pump to alternate between heating and cooling. When your thermostat settings change, it signals for the reversing valve to switch from heating to cooling or vice versa.
But sometimes this reversing valve can get stuck and will not switch between modes as it should. Luckily, it’s usually a fairly easy fix. Our team can replace this component and get your heat pump working again the way it should. Reversing valve problems are usually identified in between seasons, like right now.
Frozen Coils
It is also a problem to see frozen coils on a heat pump. While this is a pretty common problem for air conditioners too, it’s a bigger concern for heat pumps in the winter. The outdoor condenser coils of an air conditioner usually don’t have problems in the wintertime since you’re not operating your AC. However, a heat pump is operating year-round since it also provides heating.
Sometimes the refrigerant cycling backwards can lead to frozen condenser coils on the outdoor portion of your unit. Luckily your heat pump has a built-in safeguard that detects the presence of ice so that refrigerant can temporarily be reversed and heat the lines back up to melt ice. However, when it is particularly cold outside the problem may be worse.
Lack of Heat
It’s also common to have a lack of heat when your heat pump is set in heating mode. If you hold your hand up to an air vent and feel cool or lukewarm air in place of heat, that’s a problem. Even if your home still feels relatively comfortable, it’s a sign that your heat pump is struggling for some reason.
It’s better to get your heat pump checked out and find out why it’s not producing heat. Sometimes the problem isn’t even with your heat pump itself and instead your thermostat needs to be looked at. Either way, our team can troubleshoot and get your heat working again.
Your comfort is our business! Comfort Flow Heating serves all of Oregon, so contact our team today to schedule your appointment.
