We often talk up the heat pump because not enough people know about how beneficial these systems are in a climate like the one we enjoy. As an alternative to the standard “AC and electric furnace” setup many homes in Katy and the surrounding areas have, the heat pump is excellent. Replace the old furnace and air conditioner combo with a system that provides great cooling and energy-efficient heating when needed.
But what if you have a heat pump that isn’t providing the heat you need? Or maybe not providing any heat at all? When you make the switch on the heat pump from cooling mode (where it will be for most of the year) to heating mode, you might find yourself in this position. Let’s take a look at where the problem may lie.
A clogged air filter
Always, always check on the air filter for your HVAC system when you encounter an issue with comfort levels or airflow. The filter is a part of the system homeowners often overlook, and it creates many troubles when it becomes clogged with too much debris—which is something that inevitably happens. If you haven’t changed the filter at all since autumn, this drop in heating may be due to blockage of airflow. Not enough air is passing into the heat pump to be warmed. Check the filter; if it’s clogged, replace it. Then replace it regularly every 1 to 3 months.
A thermostat problem
One of the common reasons for a home feeling cooler (or warmer) than it should be is a problem with the thermostat. If the thermostat is communicating incorrectly with the heat pump, it may be telling it to shut off early. This could be due to a miscalibration of the thermostat so that it senses the home is hotter than it actually is, or it might be a loss of connection to the heat pump. Technicians can repair thermostat issues. (We also recommend upgrading the thermostat when you have a heat pump installed for the first time.)
A faulty reversing valve
If the heat pump not only isn’t putting out heat, but it’s still putting out cool air, then the problem may be with the reversing valve. This is one of the essential parts of a heat pump: it’s the component that allows it to change from heating to cooling mode and vice versa. If the valve becomes stuck, it will remain in one mode. Usually the valve must be replaced, which is a job for HVAC experts.
Dirty coils
A heat pump moves heat from one place to another—pumping heat, hence its name. To do this effectively, it must be able to absorb and release heat through a set of coils, one indoors and one outdoors. If either coil has a layer of dirt and dust, it won’t be able to effectively move heat. Properly cleaning a coil requires a professional.
We’re a licensed Katy, TX, HVAC contractor who handles all types of services for heat pumps. Your comfort is our business, and you can trust us to get your heat pump working the way it should again.