Heat Pump Problems: What Goes Wrong and How to Fix It

If your heat pump isn’t heating, cooling, or just acting weird, you’re not alone. Lots of homeowners run into the same hiccups, and most of them are fixable without a full replacement. Below we break down the top culprits, what they feel like, and the simple steps you can take before calling a pro.

Why Your Heat Pump Might Be Struggling

First, think about the symptoms. Is the unit blowing weak air? Does it click on and off frequently? Or maybe you hear a buzzing sound and smell a faint smell of burnt plastic. Each clue points to a different cause.

• Dirty air filter or coils. A clogged filter blocks airflow, making the system work harder and eventually shutting down. Check and replace the filter every 1‑3 months.
• Low refrigerant. If the refrigerant level drops, the pump can’t absorb heat properly. You’ll notice reduced heating or cooling and ice forming on the outdoor coil.
• Thermostat mis‑settings. An incorrectly set thermostat can make the pump think it’s already at the right temperature, causing it to stop cycling.
• Faulty fan motor. A humming motor that doesn’t spin means the indoor or outdoor fan isn’t moving air. This often triggers an overload shutdown.
• Electrical issues. Loose wires, tripped breakers, or a bad capacitor can interrupt power. Look for flickering lights on the control board or a dead unit.

Identifying the pattern saves time and money. Most problems are linked to airflow, refrigerant, or electricity, so start there.

Quick DIY Checks Before You Call a Technician

1. Turn it off and on. A simple power cycle can reset the control board and clear minor error codes.

2. Inspect the filter. Pull it out, give it a gentle tap, or wash it if it’s reusable. A clean filter restores proper airflow in minutes.

3. Look at the outdoor unit. Clear away leaves, dirt, and any debris that blocks the fan. Tighten any loose screws you find.

4. Check the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to "heat" or "cool" as needed, and that the temperature is set a few degrees higher or lower than the current room temp.

5. Reset the breaker. Flip the circuit breaker for the heat pump off, wait 30 seconds, then flip it back on. This can revive a tripped overload.

If after these steps the unit still won’t work, note any error codes on the display and be ready to share them with your repair service. The codes point straight to the faulty component and often reduce the service call time.

Remember, regular maintenance is the best defense. Schedule a professional check‑up once a year, clean the coils, and keep the outdoor space clear. A well‑maintained heat pump lasts longer, runs more efficiently, and saves you on energy bills.

Got a specific problem that wasn’t covered here? Drop a comment or give us a call – we’re happy to walk you through the next steps.