Troubleshooting Your Heat Pump During Cool Temperatures

While Sarasota is famous for its sunshine, our occasional "chilly" snaps are enough to make you thankful for a reliable heat pump. These systems are the MVPs of Florida HVAC—offering energy-efficient cooling all summer and seamless heating when the temperature drops.

However, even the best systems can hit a snag. If your heat pump is acting more like a "cold pump" lately, here is what you need to know.

Efficiency in Action: How Your Heat Pump Works

Unlike a traditional furnace that creates heat by burning fuel, a heat pump simply moves it.

• In the Winter: The system extracts residual heat from the outdoor air (yes, even when it feels cold to you!) and transfers it inside.
• In the Summer: The process reverses, pulling heat out of your home to keep you cool.

Because the system is moving heat rather than generating it, you can reduce your heating electricity usage by as much as 50%. It’s a win for your comfort and your utility bill.

Common Winter Woes

Even with Florida’s mild winters, heat pumps can face a few seasonal hurdles:

1. Why is it blowing cold air?

If your vents are blowing a chilly breeze while in "heat" mode, the most common culprit is restricted airflow.

• The Fix: Check your air filters. A clogged filter forces the compressor to work overtime, often leading to lukewarm air or a total system shutdown. Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent these mid-season surprises.

2. The "Ice Block" Effect

It is normal to see a little frost on your outdoor coils during a cold snap, but a thick coating of ice is a red flag.

• The Fix: Your unit has a built-in defrost cycle to handle light frost. If the ice persists or begins to encase the unit, it’s time to call in a pro to check for refrigerant issues or sensor failures.

DIY Troubleshooting vs. Calling the Pros

Before you pick up the phone, try these quick checks:

• Thermostat: Ensure it’s set to "Heat" and the temperature is higher than the room's current reading.
• Airflow: Clear away any overgrown vegetation or debris from the outdoor unit.
• Power: Check your electrical panel for any tripped breakers.

When to call Aqua Plumbing & Air: If basic troubleshooting doesn't do the trick, don't risk a DIY disaster. Since 1974, we’ve been Sarasota’s trusted experts. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to handle complex repairs on all makes and models, ensuring your home stays cozy no matter the forecast.

Need a hand getting your comfort back on track? Schedule your heating repair today or take advantage of our 24-hour emergency services for those issues that just can’t wait.