Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it produces year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s certain to experience some problems once in a while.
Let’s review these issues and how much they might cost to repair, so you’ll have some idea before you contact an HVAC technician. Some of the most likely heat pump repair problems include:
- Heat pump won’t turn on
- Heat pump won’t turn off
- Heat pump won’t defrost
- Heat pump won’t cool
- Heat pump won’t turn on after changing thermostat
- Heat pump won’t heat
1. Heat Pump Won’t Turn On
There are a lot of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we suggest checking all of them. Sometimes they are as easy as correcting a thermostat setting or replacing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the proper setting? If you want air conditioning, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the room temperature. If you want heating, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should be higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, replace the batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
- Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to run if it does not have power. Reset the appropriate breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter dirty? A dirty air filter is troublesome for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to get a new one.
If these steps don’t fix the problem, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc.
Estimated Repair Cost
This issue can be complex, so how much it costs to correct it will depend on what’s wrong.
2. Heat Pump Isn’t Shutting Off
If it’s very hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to achieve your desired temperature.
If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set properly and operating normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will run 24/7. So, it’ll appear as though your heat pump is running all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels in check, but it’ll also drive up your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set correctly, there are a few other problems that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:
- A new thermostat that isn’t appropriate for your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which regulates the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be connected to many issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how difficult it is.
3. Heat Pump Can’t Remove Ice Buildup
Occasionally during cold weather, your heat pump will briefly go into cooling mode. This will dissolve light frost and ice that naturally builds up on the coils. A heat pump that becomes totally frozen may have difficulty heating your home or shut down altogether.
Here are a few reasons why this might be happening:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have sufficient airflow because it’s blocked by snow, bushes or yard debris.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, causing an icy buildup.
- A part is malfunctioning, which may consist of the reversing valve, relays, controls or sensors.
- The outdoor fan motor is damaged, dying or dead.
- Your heat pump has a refrigerant leak. This is possible if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you notice a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor near the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we mentioned before, there are a few reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are several estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the degree of the problem.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
4. Heat Pump Can’t Produce Cool Air
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be linked to many problems. We advise checking for:
- Right thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing wrong with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need help from an HVAC technician to diagnose a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we reviewed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have a problem with its reversing valve, outdoor fan motor or a refrigerant leak.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total charge may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the scope of the concern.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
5. Heat Pump Has Trouble Turning On After Changing Thermostat
If your heat pump won’t turn on after altering the thermostat, the problem is probably tied to your new thermostat. While you can install just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t accurate for heat pumps, especially if you have backup or emergency heating.
You can check your new thermostat by changing the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor start in your air handler, there’s probably an issue with the thermostat.
A couple other common thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done wrong.
- Thermostat isn’t interacting with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which requires a reset.
It’s wise to have a heating and cooling professional recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll avoid any compatibility or wiring issues.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, they are missing the sophisticated features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Won’t Heat
A heat pump that won’t heat is linked to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We recommend checking for:
- Appropriate thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the assistance of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is hard to reach since it’s found behind walls and multiple issues can cause your heat pump to freeze up.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the magnitude of the problem.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump runs on. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Take Care of Your Heat Pump Problems Quickly and Affordably with Our Help
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you get in touch with Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc. Our pros have been delivering the quality, affordable heat pump repair Wisconsin Rapids homeowners have relied on since 1915. Get in touch with us at 715-564-8958 to get your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.