Heat pump problems can occur anytime, but they’re especially common during the hot summer months in Clinton, TN. Here are some of the most common heat pump problems you might encounter during the summer:
Loss of Cooling Capacity
When heat pumps operate for extended periods during hot weather, the coolant levels can drop, resulting in a loss of cooling capacity. This can happen if the system is low on refrigerant or because an undersized system won’t keep up with the demand. The best solution is to get a professional service technician to inspect the heat pump and refill the refrigerant as needed.
If the system is old, it might be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient one. The latest models are more efficient and cost-effective, and they can help improve indoor air quality.
Poor Airflow
Poor airflow can result from various issues, such as clogged air filters or dirty evaporator coils. Restricted airflow means the system cannot function at peak efficiency, making it work harder to achieve the desired temperature and result. This can also cause frozen evaporator coils or a frozen outdoor unit.
Inspect your air filters regularly and have the evaporator coils cleaned by a professional service technician every one to three months. When filters clog, the system struggles to circulate air, which may cause the compressor’s premature failure.
Noisy Operation
Heat pumps can become noisy during heavy usage periods, particularly because of inadequate lubrication or loose parts. Also, dirty evaporator coils or clogged air filters can cause problems, which may sound like rattling from within the system. If the noise levels increase, call AC experts to address these issues immediately to prevent further damage.
The condenser fan motor might also cause noisy operation. When condenser fans begin to fail, their blades can come into contact with the unit’s components and cause a loud noise. Replacing the fan motor is usually necessary in this case.
Running Constantly
An efficient heat pump should only run for short periods to maintain the desired temperature. If your system runs constantly, it may be due to a faulty thermostat or an undersized system. Blocked air filters can also cause constant running.
Check your thermostat settings and make sure they’re correct. Replace clogged air filters, and hire a service technician to check and repair the heat pump once or twice a year. Frequent maintenance can help avoid costly repair bills when the unit breaks down.
Freezing Up
Heat pumps can freeze up due to a lack of airflow or low refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant causes the pressure in the heat pump to drop, which makes the system unable to absorb enough heat from outside. This can cause ice to build up on the evaporator coils and eventually shut the system down.
Poor airflow also prevents warm air from reaching the indoor unit, which can cause ice buildup on the evaporator coils. To prevent this problem, check the air filters regularly, and make sure they are clean. If you suspect low refrigerant levels, contact an expert to refill.
Electrical Problems
Heat pumps can also experience electrical problems, such as tripped circuit breakers or loose wiring connections. Circuit breakers trip due to the system overloading, so check the power supply and reset the circuit breaker if necessary. Loose wiring connections can cause intermittent operation or short circuits.
Electrical problems can be dangerous if left unchecked. However, regular checkups can prevent most electrical issues from occurring.
Heat pump problems can be irritating and inconvenient during summer. However, periodic maintenance and repairs can help prevent most of these issues. Contact us at Melton Heating and Air Conditioning if you need heat pump repair or require maintenance services.
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