Heat pumps are all-in-one heating and cooling systems that many homeowners use solo or in conjunction with a complimentary heater. As we head into another frigid winter, as always, one of our top priorities is making sure our heating systems are in tiptop condition. One way homeowners can do this is by learning to recognize signs that their heat pump is going bad.
How Do I Know If My Heat Pump Is Going Bad?
Figuring out whether there’s something wrong with your heat pump isn’t always easy. The following are a few signs you can look for that will help you determine whether your heat pump is going bad:
- Airflow – Airflow is your heat pump’s friend. It helps your heat pump regulate your home’s temperature. If you put your hand up to your vents when the heat is running and notice that the airflow is reduced, it could be a sign that something is going wrong with your heat pump. If there is something obstructing airflow out of the heat pump, that can reduce airflow throughout your heating system. Items that can obstruct your heat pump’s airflow include dust, foreign objects, and ice buildup.
- Age – Heat pumps don’t last forever. The lifespans of heat pumps vary, but in most cases, if your heat pump is over 15 years old, it’s probably giving you problems already and is more than likely on its last legs.
- Icy Coil – Heat pumps are for both heating and cooling. When a heat pump is in heating mode, a little ice can build up on the outdoor unit’s coil. This is normal. However, if the ice starts to become thick, doesn’t defrost periodically, or contacts any of your heating system’s moving parts, you could have a problem on your hands. Anything more than moderate ice buildup can obstruct airflow and damage moving parts. Each of these issues can lead to your heat pump going bad or be a sign that it already has.
- Cold – If your HVAC is blowing out cold air when it’s in heat mode, that points to an issue with its reversing valve. Not only will this mean your heat pump has gone bad, but it could also result in you paying higher utility bills even though your home isn’t being properly heated.
Additionally, if you do determine that your heat pump is going bad, do not attempt to repair it yourself. Your heat pump is a complex device and if you try to repair it yourself, you could end up causing more damage and cost yourself even more money in the long run.
Heat Pump Problems? Our Experienced Heat Pump Repair Specialists Can Help. Contact Us Now!
At Meyer’s, our HVAC technicians have been serving homeowners and businesses in Northwest Indiana and South Chicagoland for more than 70 years. If your heat pump needs to be repaired or replaced, we can help.
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To learn more about heat pump maintenance, repair, and replacement, or to speak with our experienced heat pump repair specialists about your situation, call us at (219) 240-0610 or contact us online today. We offer coupons, financing options, and upfront pricing. We are available 24/7 for HVAC emergencies.