Your heat pump is an essential part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s bound to experience some issues every now and then.
Let’s review these issues and how much they might cost to fix, so you’ll have some idea before you contact an HVAC technician. Some of the most common 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 a lot of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we suggest checking all of them. Sometimes they are as simple as correcting a thermostat setting or changing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the right 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 heating, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should greater than the current temperature. If you use a programmable thermostat, replace the batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
- Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to turn on if it lacks power. Reset the corresponding breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter clogged? A dirty air filter is problematic for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to replace it.
If these steps don’t fix the issue, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning.
Estimated Repair Cost
This problem can be complex, 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 run 24/7. So, it’ll sound like your heat pump is running all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels in check, but it’ll also drive up your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set properly, there are several other issues that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:
- A new thermostat that isn’t appropriate for your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which controls the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be linked to a lot of issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how complex it is.
3. Heat Pump Won’t Defrost
Every now and then during cold weather, your heat pump will briefly go into cooling mode. This will melt light frost and ice that normally builds up on the coils. A heat pump that becomes totally frozen may struggle to heat your home or shut down altogether.
Here are several reasons why this might be taking place:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have enough airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, causing 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 likely if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing noises. Or if you notice a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor near the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we mentioned before, there are a lot of reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a few estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the severity 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 pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
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 recommend 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 reviewed 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 severity 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 uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.
- 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 test your new thermostat by changing the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor running in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.
A couple other typical thermostat problems include:
- Wiring was done incorrectly.
- Thermostat isn’t communicating with heat pump.
- Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which involves a reset.
It’s recommended to have a heating and cooling pro recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll avoid any compatibility or wiring issues.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what type of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are less expensive, they lack the sophisticated 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 suggest checking for:
- Appropriate thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A dirty air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the assistance of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is difficult to reach since it’s placed behind walls and multiple issues can cause your heat pump to ice over.
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 kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being produced.
- 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 irritating, but not when you contact Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning. Our professionals have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Omaha homeowners have relied on since 1961. Call us at 402-509-5940 to get your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.