Heat Pump Troubleshooting
Heat pumps are an energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home. Just like any HVAC system, though, they can run into issues. If your heat pump isn’t working as it should, this general guide will walk you through the most common problems and what to check before calling a pro.
Heat Pump Isn’t Heating/Cooling
- Incorrect temperature settings—Check the temperature settings on the thermostat and adjust as needed.
- Incorrect fan settings—Change the fan setting from “ON” to “AUTO.”
- Incorrect mode—Check the thermostat to see if it’s set to “HEAT” or “COOL” and change as needed.
- Thermostat needs to be reset—Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker for 5-10 minutes, then restore power.
- Dirty/clogged air filters—Change the air filter.
- Refrigerant leak/low refrigerant—Contact an authorized HVAC technician to have the refrigerant checked and/or topped off.
- Frozen evaporator coil—Turn the unit off and allow the evaporator coil to defrost. If the issue persists, call an authorized HVAC technician.
Heat Pump Has No Power
- Circuit breaker has tripped—Check your circuit breaker for both indoor and outdoor units, and switch back on if needed.
- Loose or damaged wiring—Check for any loose or damaged wiring connections, then call an authorized HVAC technician to make any necessary repairs.
- No power connection—Make sure that the unit is connected to power.
Heat Pump Isn’t Getting Enough Air
- Blocked vents—Clear away any blockage to vents, registers and ductwork. For outdoor units, make sure any vegetation is trimmed and away from air intakes.
- Dirty/clogged air filters—Change the air filter.
Heat Pump Fan Isn’t Spinning
- Blocked vents—Clear away any blockage to vents and make sure any vegetation is trimmed and away from exterior air intakes. If the problem persists, contact an authorized HVAC technician.
- Issue with the heat pump fan motor—Contact an authorized HVAC technician to have the fan motor checked, repaired or replaced.
- No power connection—Make sure that the unit is connected to power.
- Circuit breaker has tripped—Check your circuit breaker and switch back on if needed.
Heat Pump is Leaking Water
- Drain pan is full—Empty the drain pan.
- Clogged hoses or tubing—If clogs are present in the drain pan, clear them away. If not, call an authorized HVAC technician.
Heat Pump is Making a Lot of Noise
- Mechanical/electrical failure—Call an authorized HVAC technician if you hear unusual hissing, banging, rattling or grinding noises.
Heat Pump is Constantly Running
- Incorrect temperature settings—Your temperature settings may be too high or too low. Check the temperature settings on the thermostat and adjust as needed.
- Blocked vents—Clear away any blockage to vents, registers and ductwork. For outdoor units, make sure any vegetation is trimmed and away from air intakes.
- Dirty/clogged air filters—Change the air filter.