Heat Pump Tips for Common Problems

December 17, 2023

I have a noisy heat pump.

1. My heat pump turns off and on when it shouldn’t.
2. My heat pump constantly trips the circuit breaker.
3. My heat pump doesn’t heat or cool my home properly.
4. My heat pump doesn’t start.

Solutions for Common Heat Pump Problems If your heat pump is not working, doesn’t heat or cool properly, freezes up, trips the circuit breaker or you are experiencing a multitude of other heat pump problems, our common heat pump troubleshooting solutions below could be your answer: My heat pump doesn’t start.

• Be sure the thermostat is set to the proper setting (heat or cool).
• Make sure the thermostat is receiving power by checking both the main electrical panel and any subpanels that supply power. In addition, check the air handler cabinet if you receive supplemental heat. If the circuit breaker has tripped or a fuse blown in any of these places, reset or replace.

My heat pump doesn’t heat or cool my home properly.

• Check the filter in your heat pump. If it is dirty, it needs to be replaced.
• Make sure your registers are open.
• Make sure the coils in the outdoor unit are clean.

My heat pump constantly trips the circuit breaker.

• Make sure the auxiliary heating elements are working properly. Auxiliary heating elements provide heat to your home when the weather gets really cold (around 20 degrees F). When they come on, they may use too much power and trip your circuit breaker. Simply reset the breaker.

My heat pump turns off and on when it shouldn’t.

• You may have a clogged or dirty filter. Simply replace it.
• Your thermostat may be improperly calibrated and will need to be professionally fixed.

I have a noisy heat pump.

• A rattling noise may be the result of loose cover panels. It may also be because of loose parts in the air handler, which will need to be tightened as well.
• If your noisy heat pump is making a grinding or squealing noise, the bearings on the motor may be worn out. This will require replacement of your motor and should be performed by a professional HVAC technician.