Have you experienced your heat pump not heating enough, or maybe, your heat pump blowing cold air? These are the 10 most common reasons why a heat pump doesn’t heat.

Thermostat Setting is Incorrect

If the thermostat setting is incorrect, it can cause a heat pump not to heat properly. Setting the thermostat too low can result in insufficient heat, while setting it too high can generate wasted energy. To solve this problem, check and adjust the thermostat setting to the desired temperature and heating mode, or consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for greater control and energy optimization.

Uncalibrated or Faulty Thermostat

An uncalibrated thermostat may provide inaccurate temperature readings, while a faulty thermostat may fail to communicate with the heat pump. To troubleshoot, check and calibrate the thermostat as needed, or replace it with a new one if it’s not functioning properly. It’s important to consult a licensed HVAC professional for calibration or replacement assistance to ensure your heat pump’s safe and effective operation.

The Circuit Breaker is Tripped 

Overloading, electrical surges, or other issues may cause a tripped circuit breaker. To fix this problem, check and reset the circuit breaker if necessary, or contact a licensed electrician for assistance if the issue persists. To avoid further problems, it’s crucial to ensure that the circuit breaker is appropriately sized for your heat pump and that any underlying electrical matters are addressed.

Outdoor Unit Power Disconnect 

The power disconnect switch is typically located near the outdoor unit and can be identified by a lever or switch in the “off” position. To have your heat pump working again, you must locate the power disconnect switch and flip it to the “on” position. If the switch was off due to a safety or electrical issue, consult a licensed HVAC professional for further inspection and repair.

Indoor Unit Power Switch 

If the indoor unit power switch is turned off, it can cause the heat pump not to function correctly. To solve this, locate the indoor unit power switch and ensure that it is turned on by flipping the switch to the “on” position. If the power switch is turned on, but the heat pump still isn’t working, it may indicate a more severe issue that requires professional attention.

Dirty Air Filter  

Over time, the air filter in your heat pump can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris, which can restrict airflow and cause various problems. To solve this problem, locate the air filter in your heat pump and clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regularly changing the air filter is an integral part of maintaining the performance and efficiency of your heat pump.

Leaking Duct 

Ducts can develop leaks or tears, allowing air to escape and reducing the effectiveness of the heat pump. Locating and sealing it can solve this problem. Still, it’s best to hire a professional HVAC technician if the leak is severe or cannot be easily found and repaired. Regularly inspecting and sealing ducts can improve the performance and efficiency of your heat pump.

Frozen Outdoor Unit 

A frozen outdoor unit can cause the heat pump to stop working and reduce efficiency. This can happen when the outdoor temperature drops below freezing and the heat pump’s defrost cycle is malfunctioning. To fix this, turn off the heat pump and allow it to defrost naturally or use a gentle heat source, such as warm water, to speed up the process.

Low Refrigerant Charge 

This is often caused by a refrigerant leak, which can reduce the heat pump’s efficiency and cause it to stop working. The best way to solve this problem is to call a licensed HVAC professional for a proper assessment and repair. They will recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant and address any underlying issues to ensure a safe, effective operation. For safety reasons, it’s important not to attempt this repair yourself.

Bad Reversing Valve 

A bad reversing valve can cause the heat pump to stop working in heating mode and only work in cooling mode. This valve is responsible for changing the direction of refrigerant flow and determining whether the heat pump is heating or cooling. The solution is to replace the reversing valve with a new one. This is a job that a professional should complete because it requires special tools and knowledge of the refrigerant system.