Identifying 4 Summertime Heat Pump Problems in Maumelle, AR

Heat pumps are one of the most efficient HVAC options for homes in Maumelle, AR. Like all machines, however, they can sometimes behave strangely or suffer malfunctions. Here are four heat pump problems to watch out for during this season.

1. Heat Pump Blowing Warm Air

One of the most distressing heat pump problems you may encounter in summertime is when yours blows warm air. Before you panic, however, realize that there are a couple of mundane reasons it might happen.

The most common reason for a heat pump to blow warm air is a dirty air filter. That can lead to a frozen indoor coil, which prevents it from producing cold air. Typically, replacing the filter resolves the issue.

Another reason your heat pump may blow warm air is that you inadvertently switched it to heat mode. Some thermostats make such accidents easy with unclear menus and hard-to-read labeling. So, check your thermostat before assuming your system has malfunctioned.

If neither of the above applies, your HVAC system likely needs professional attention. That’s especially true if other symptoms, such as unusual smells or sounds, accompany the warm air. In that case, you should turn off your system and schedule an immediate repair.

2. Short Cycling

If your HVAC system keeps frequently turning on and off while in cooling mode, you’re experiencing short cycling. Your system short cycles when it struggles to maintain the set temperature on your thermostat. There are multiple reasons why it might happen.

The simplest explanation for short cycling is that your home has poor insulation or air leaks. If your indoor temperature rapidly rises with your heat pump off, it has no choice but to reactivate. In that case, you should try to tighten the air envelope for your home by sealing cracks around windows and doors, and upgrading insulation.

Another common reason for short cycling is a faulty thermostat. If your home has a thermostat that’s over 10 years old, it may require replacement. An expert HVAC technician can test yours and replace it if necessary.

3. Overheating

If your HVAC system switches off at random intervals while in cooling mode, it may be overheating. The shutdowns are intentional and protect the system components from damage. Most of the time, overheating happens due to an airflow problem.

If your air filter isn’t dirty, the problem may be a dirty indoor coil. Your indoor coil facilitate heat transfer as air passes over them. Coils that are coated with dust cannot cool the air that posses over them.

You can schedule a maintenance visit to clean the indoor coil of your HVAC system to resolve the issue. Alternatively, overheating can indicate a loss of refrigerant. In that case, it will need repair to restore its functionality.

4. Heat Pump Making Strange Noises

Finally, you may notice some odd sounds coming from your system during its operation. In our geographic area, your heat pump works its hardest in the summer heat. As a result, the effects of wear and tear show up most often during the cooling season.

If you hear a rattling noise from your heat pump, it may indicate a loose part. It may be your blower fan, which can loosen due to constant vibration. Alternatively, the sound may indicate failed blower motor mounts, although this is less common.

Another noise you might hear from your system is a buzzing sound. If the sound originates from your outdoor unit, it may need a new capacitor. The contactor switch in your system may also buzz when it begins to fail.

Buzzing sounds can also mean electrical trouble. You must address such problems immediately because they can become dangerous.

Heat pumps typically offer reliable, year-round comfort for homes in this region. If yours malfunctions or starts behaving oddly, call Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling for a heat pump repair today!

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