Introduction

Lately, heat pumps have become increasingly popular thanks to their capability to heat and cool simultaneously, efficiently than traditional heating systems. Also, heat pumps are cost- and energy-efficient; they provide around three times more heat to your home compared to the electricity they consume.

However, while these systems are cost-effective, power-efficient, and convenient, they are characterized by wear and tear, resulting in heat pumps not heating.  During cold seasons, your heat pump blowing cold air can be frustrating; your well-furnished, cozy home would be turned into a chilly ordeal. Whether your heat pump is blowing cold air, not heating, not switching on, or not working completely, it is important to discover what the matter is.

If your heat pump is not heating properly, it could be one of the reasons described below. Troubleshooting heat pumps is an easy task that does not require any professionalism; you can do it on your own.

1. Heat pump not heating

You anticipate a cozy, comfortable home in winter. Perhaps that’s the main reason you’ve installed a heat pump. It can be so frustrating, without any exaggeration, if your heat pump isn’t heating. It could be caused by an incorrectly configured/calibrated thermostat, a low refrigerant level, a blocked outdoor unit, dry air filters, or even leaking ducts. 

How to fix it

• Check your thermostat manual to figure out if there are guidelines on thermostat recalibration. Replace it if you don’t see any instructions.

• Wash clogged air filters with soapy water. Have them replaced if they are extremely dirty.

• Remove any debris inside the outdoor unit

Pro Tip

• Ensure your heat pump is configured in “HEAT” and not “COOL.” Set a few degrees higher and observe the change.

2. Heat pump blowing cold air in heat mode

You may experience cold air coming from your heat pump, yet configured in heat mode. This could be attributed to several culprits, like clogged filters, incorrect thermostat settings, poor maintenance, or a heat pump configured in defrost mode.

How to fix it

• Inspect your outdoor unit and clean any dust or debris accumulated in it. Frequently clean the filters and replace them every four months. Also, trim any surrounding vegetation.

• Inspect the thermostat and configure the settings to “auto.”

• If the reverse valve is broken, contact an HVAC professional to replace it.

Pro Tip

• Check whether your device is set in “defrost mode.” Remove any ice/snow blocking the airway.

3. Indoor Air Handler not working

The work of an air handler is to distribute hot/cold air inside your house. If you aren’t getting any air from the registers yet the outdoor unit is running, then the air handler may be the problem. It may be caused by tripped circuit breakers, poor wiring connections, or a blown blower motor. 

How to fix it

• Inspect your outdoor unit circuit breaker and see if it has tripped. Check the fuses and see if they're blown.

• Contact an HVAC professional to replace blown blower motors.

Pro Tip

• Check the access panel of your air handler for the reset button. Press it and wait for a few minutes.

4. Foul smells

You can sense something is wrong by just smelling. If you discover some weird smells coming from your heat pump, it’s time to troubleshoot the device. It could be caused by mold growth, animal infiltration, or electrical issues. 

How to fix it

• If you suspect that mold has grown inside the air ducts, switch off your heat pump, remove and clean the mold on your own. 

• If it smells like something is rotting within the system, open it and see if you can clear the carcass.

• If it smells burning, there could be critical electrical issues that require an HVAC expert.

Pro Tip

• Check your condensate drain line and remove any acclimated matter inside it.

5. Reversing Valve Malfunction 

The reverse valve, though small, it’s a critical component that switches the system between heating and cooling modes. Broken or stuck reversing valves may cause the heat pump not to heat.

How to fix it

• Inspect your heat pump to figure out whether the heat valve is damaged. If yes, contact an HVAC technician to handle the repair.

Pro Tip

• Use a rubber tool to lightly hit the reversing valve while the heat pump is running.

Conclusion 

A heat pump not working problem does not always translate to a complex, costly repair. Many issues, including dirty and clogged filters, incorrectly configured thermostat, reverse valve malfunction, and foul smell, among others, can be fixed easily. However, if the heat pump is not switching on, unusual noise, and fluid leaks, problems persist, or it stops working completely, it is the right time to contact a certified technician. You should regularly maintain your heat pump to prevent winter heating nightmares and extend its life.