Troubleshooting Your Heat Pump During Cool Temperatures

TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR HEAT PUMP DURING COOL TEMPERATURES

Heat pumps are an ideal solution for heating and cooling in Sarasota, Florida, and nearby communities. They use less energy, distribute heat evenly and offer the benefit of a single system for heating and cooling instead of maintaining a separate furnace and air conditioner. However, heat pumps occasionally act up. Here are several common problems that you may experience with your heat pump during cooler months.

HOW A HEAT PUMP WORKS

During the winter, heat pumps extract heat from the air, water or ground and transfer it into your home or office. Because heat flows from warmer to cooler environments, cool refrigerant absorbs residual heat from outdoors. As refrigerant flows through the system, it changes from liquid to gas and releases heat. During summer, reversing the flow of refrigerant allows heat pumps to absorb indoor heat and release it outside. Although electricity powers fans and blowers, electricity is not used to generate heat, reducing electricity usage for heating by up to 50%.

HEAT PUMP BLOWING COLD AIR

There are several reasons why a heat pump blows cold air in heating mode. Lack of maintenance is the primary reason units malfunction. Clogged filters prevent air from flowing freely, which overtaxes the compressor. Units may run longer, blow cold air or shut down. During an annual tune-up, technicians clean filters and coils as well as check all other components of the system. The result is better energy efficiency, reliability and comfort.

OUTDOOR UNIT ICING UP

During winter months, frost often forms on outdoor coils. However, a coating of ice during any season affects heat transfer. Running the defrost cycle should clear it. If it does not, call a professional to remedy the problem.

WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL

Cleaning filters, keeping vegetation trimmed around the outdoor unit and checking the thermostat, electrical connections and settings are simple troubleshooting tasks homeowners can undertake if a heat pump malfunctions. However, serious issues should be diagnosed and repaired by licensed, trained professionals.

Aqua Plumbing & Air has served Sarasota residents since 1974. As a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, our NATE-certified technicians undergo extensive training on advanced heating and cooling equipment. We are experienced in installing, maintaining and repairing all makes and models of heating and cooling equipment.

If your heat pump is not providing the comfort you need, call today to  schedule heating repairs. We also offer 24-hour emergency services for situations that require immediate attention.