Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it provides year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s bound to experience some problems every now and then.
Let’s go over these issues and how much they might cost to repair, so you’ll have some idea before you call an HVAC technician. Some of the most typical 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 plenty 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 correct setting? If you want air conditioning, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the current temperature. If you want heat, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, put in new 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 doesn’t have power. Reset the corresponding 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 replace it.
If these steps don’t correct the issue, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Lakeside Heating & Air.
Estimated Repair Cost
This issue can be complicated, so how much it costs to fix it will depend on what’s wrong.
2. Heat Pump Won’t Turn Off
If it’s very hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to reach your desired temperature.
If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set properly and running normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will go 24/7. So, it’ll sound like your heat pump is working all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels under control, but it’ll also drive up your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set correctly, there are several other problems that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:
- A new thermostat that isn’t compatible with your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which controls 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 Won’t Defrost
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 struggle to heat your home or shut down completely.
Here are a few reasons why this might be taking place:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have enough airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard debris.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, creating an icy buildup.
- A part is not working, which may include 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 noises. Or if you discover a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor close to the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we discussed before, there are many 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 extent 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
4. Heat Pump Won’t Cool
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many issues. We suggest checking for:
- Correct thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing awry with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need help from an HVAC technician to identify a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we discussed 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 cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
5. Heat Pump Won’t Turn On After Changing Thermostat
If your heat pump won’t turn on after changing 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 need backup or emergency heating.
You can check your new thermostat by switching the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor running in your air handler, there’s probably an issue with the thermostat.
A couple other common thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done incorrectly.
- Thermostat isn’t interacting with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which requires a reset.
It’s recommended to have a heating and cooling professional recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll stay away from any compatibility or wiring problems.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are less expensive, they are missing the advanced 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:
- Correct 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 placed 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 extent of the issue.
- 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being made.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Resolve Your Heat Pump Problems Quickly and Affordably with Our Help
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you call Lakeside Heating & Air. Our pros have been delivering the quality, affordable heat pump repair Chelan and Wenatchee homeowners have depended on since 2001. Call us at 509-284-4265 to get your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.