Heating
Service Technician repairing heat pump

Winter heat pump problems can be especially problematic when they occur during cold snaps in San Antonio. Fortunately, there are quick troubleshooting tips available to help identify and resolve many issues.

Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air

Just because your heat pump isn’t blowing hot air doesn’t mean there’s a major problem. You might have the system set to the wrong mode. Just check the thermostat to confirm whether you have the unit on the right setting.

If the thermostat has a malfunction, this can cause the system to blow cold air too. Loose wiring, faulty sensors and dead batteries are the top causes of thermostat failure.

If the air filter is dirty, it can create airflow problems that prevent proper heating. Cleaning the filter monthly is crucial to ensuring the system can circulate warm air effectively. If you’re using a ductless heat pump with a washable mesh filter, we recommend cleaning it every two weeks.

When you suspect the cold air stems from low refrigerant or dirty coils, you need to call for professional help. You don’t want to risk injuring yourself or damaging the system.

Outdoor Unit Frozen or Iced Over

It’s very normal for a heat pump to have a thin layer of frost on it, especially during cold or humid weather. If you ever see thick ice buildup, this is cause for concern. You need to check for anything that could be preventing proper airflow. Ideally, the unit needs a clearance of at least two feet on all sides.

Next, you need to see whether the unit is going through the defrost mode. When it is, you might notice steam coming from the outdoor unit. If the ice remains, the reversing valve may not be functioning properly. The safest and smartest next step is to give us a call.

Heat Pump Not Turning On

When your system won’t turn on at all, start with the thermostat. Dead batteries are a frequent cause of errors and power supply issues. Or maybe the breaker connected to the heat pump tripped. Performing a quick reset may resolve your issue. If you give everything a good look over and still don’t know what’s wrong, it’s time to call in a professional.

Weak or Uneven Airflow

If you notice uneven temperatures or weak airflow, you need to check all of the air vents. Whether they’re regular air registers or ductless air handlers, some of them may have blockages or be in the closed position. It’s easy to close a vent with the intention to redirect airflow and then forget to reopen it. When this happens, it can cause hot and cold spots throughout the house.

Heat Pump Running Constantly

It’s quite normal for heat pumps to run longer than furnaces, particularly during colder weather. But this doesn’t mean your system should run nonstop. Just like furnaces, heat pumps require periods of rest to maintain a balanced temperature. A system that runs constantly indicates a potential airflow or efficiency issue. If the unit gets stuck in defrost mode, this can also cause cycling issues. You’ll probably need help from one of our trained technicians to get a lasting fix.

Unusual Noises From the Unit

Heat pumps tend to make a low hum or buzzing noise as they run. You may also hear a click when the system cycles on. But any other sounds should grab your attention. Rattling noises typically point to loose or misaligned components. You don’t want the system to run with a loose part or panel because it risks serious damage. The motor could even burn out if you continue to ignore the sound. Loud banging noises often indicate a problem with the compressor fan. One of our technicians can inspect your setup to find and fix the underlying issue.

Heat Pump Short Cycling

When a heat pump keeps turning on and off really fast, this is what we call short cycling. There’s usually a thermostat or airflow problem behind the issue. For example, if the thermostat is positioned in a location that receives direct sunlight, this can send false readings, causing the heat pump to cycle improperly. Frozen coils and low refrigerant levels can cause similar symptoms. The result is a system that uses significantly more energy than necessary and experiences excessive wear. It also makes the home uncomfortable due to poor climate control. When a thermostat or filter fix doesn’t resolve the short cycling issue, you need to seek professional help.

What Is the Best Way to Avoid Winter Heat Pump Issues?

Heat pumps often need more care than furnaces because of their year-round use. Taking certain steps now is the best way to avoid problems during winter.

Stay on Top of Required Air Filter Cleaning

When inspecting the filter, look for dust, lint and discoloration. If more than half of the surface appears clogged, proceed to clean the filter or replace it with a new one. There are many types of filters to choose from that can increase airflow while also providing better filtration. If someone in the home suffers from allergies, you may want a higher-efficiency filter. We can help you choose one that perfectly matches your system’s needs.

To make sure you’re using a filter rated for your system, you’ll need to look at the MERV rating. Filters with a MERV of 8–11 are the most common and safest for most systems. MERV 13 and above is okay when a system is specifically designed to handle higher filtration.

Get Leaky Ductwork Fixed

Heat pumps are well known for their energy efficiency, but any energy gains are completely wasted if you have leaky ductwork. This is why yearly duct inspections and sealing are crucial for ensuring the system operates with optimal performance.

Book Seasonal Heat Pump Maintenance

Getting your heat pump serviced during early fall is an excellent way to prepare it for winter. We’ll inspect all of the different components, adding lubrication and adjustments where needed. If we come across any worn-out parts, we’ll replace them. The result is a system that functions with peak airflow and power-saving performance.

Maintenance is one of the simplest ways to keep your heat pump working as it should:

  • Improves heat transfer
  • Prevents airflow issues
  • Verifies effective defrost cycle
  • Tightens loose components
  • Protects the compressor
  • Tests safety controls

Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company is here to answer any questions you have about prepping your heat pump for winter. If your system is making unusual noises or behaving strangely, please give us a call. We’ll locate and resolve the issue so you stay warm and cozy. Call Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company today to schedule professional heat pump services in San Antonio.

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