Common Heating Pump Problems In The Winter
Using a heating pump can be an efficient way to heat and cool your home throughout the year. However, if it malfunctions or stops working in the frigid winter months, it can be both uncomfortable and ultimately dangerous to be without heat for too long. That's why it's important to address heating pump problems as soon as you notice problems. Here are heating problems you might encounter in the winter so that you have some idea of what needs to be looked at.
Making Weird Noises
It's easy for everyone to ignore random hissing, rattling or popping sounds that you hear whenever the heat is on. However, those weird noises can be early indicators of a heat pump problem that needs to be taken care of. Try to follow any sounds to their source so that you can better see what the problem may be. Hissing, for instance, could mean that there is a refrigerant leak that needs attention. Rattling could indicate loose registers or hardware that need to be screwed in or put in place.
Not Powering On
Your heating system not coming on at all can cause a great deal of concern. However, sometimes the solution is simple. Perhaps something was tripped in your circuit breaker and you just need to flip the switch that connects to your heat pump to get things working again.
If the electrical supply is not what is causing the problem, it could be that a refrigerant leak has caused the refrigerant solution to become depleted. If that happens, the refrigerant lines or tank needs to be repaired or replaced and then replenished before the heat pump can work again.
Blowing Cool Air
Another problem that your heat pump could be experiencing is blowing cold air instead of hot air. Heat pumps typically have a valve that you can slide from the "cooling" position that you use in the summer to the "heating" position that you use in the winter. Part of that mechanism includes a solenoid, which is a kind of magnet. If it loses its magnetism, the valve is unable to move properly; that could lock your pump in the "cooling" position. You'll need a professional to replace the solenoid and ensure that the valve is functioning as it ought to.
Once you think you've found the root of your heating pump issues, contact a local HVAC services contractor like Kayvon HVAC who can check out your pump and make the necessary repairs.