When a heat pump suddenly stops functioning, the average homeowner has a few troubleshooting options before calling for service.
Some basic checks can be done that might prevent an emergency service call:
- First thing to check is the thermostat. Sometimes the heat pump isn’t running because the thermostat isn’t set for cooling. Double-check the temperature set points to make sure no one has switched it off for any reason. If you have a digital programmable thermostat, check the batteries. Dead batteries will shut off a heat pump system.
- Is there power getting to the system? A tripped circuit breaker or fault in the electrical lines to your system will cause malfunction. A tripped circuit breaker is an easy fix; simply reset it and turn the system on. If the breaker trips again, you have electrical problems and need a service call.
- Another area to check, which can cause the system to malfunction or even stop running, is a badly clogged air filter. You should change your filter at least every three months and as often as monthly during high-use seasons. A clogged filter reduces the airflow and some systems shut down when reduced airflow is detected. Even if it doesn’t shut down your heat pump, it will reduce efficiency and eventually damage your system.
Since the rest of the system isn’t designed for homeowner repairs, call for service if you have performed the steps we’ve outlined and your system still isn’t running, or is not cooling like it should.
For more advice about your system, or to schedule a system check-up or repair, please contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve been around for more than 34 years, serving Lorain, Erie and Cuyahoga counties.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat pumps and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area