More Southport homeowners are choosing to install heat pumps for energy-efficient and reliable heating and cooling. While you can reasonably expect a properly installed unit to keep your home comfortable without any issues for up to 20 years, there may be times when it needs professional attention.
But how do you know if your heat pump is bad? Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair Heating, Air, & Plumbing provides heat pump repair services in Southport, IN, and can provide the answer. In most cases, heat pumps will show some obvious signs that they need repairs.
Watch for These Signs of Heat Pump Trouble in Southport
If you’re wondering whether you need to call a professional for heat pump repair, any of the following signs usually mean something’s not right.
No Heat or Air Conditioning
One of the most obvious signs of a problem with the heat pump is an inconsistent temperature or no heat or cold air at all. Some of the most common reasons this occurs are faulty electrical or thermostat connections, problems with valves, or a broken starter capacitor. If the unit is still producing some heat or cool air, but you notice reduced airflow, the issue could be a clogged filter; try cleaning or changing it to see if that helps.
Constant Running or Short-Cycling
Although it’s normal for a heat pump to run longer on especially cold or warm days, if it runs constantly without ever turning off, that’s an answer to “How do you know if your heat pump is bad?” The most likely issue is a faulty thermostat, but there could also be an issue with the compressor.
Short cycling, or constantly turning on and off without completing a full cycle, also spells trouble for your heat pump. Sometimes, the problem is a clogged filter or miscalibrated thermostat, but there could be a bigger issue within the unit. In any case, short cycling can cause overheating, so it’s best to call a professional for help.
Ice Buildup
When temperatures drop in Southport, you might notice a thin layer of ice on the heat pump. This is normal, and the unit will automatically shift into defrost mode to melt it. However, if the ice is thick or the unit doesn’t defrost automatically, something is wrong with that function.
Because ice buildup can occur due to a number of issues, ranging from faulty sensors or valves to low refrigerant and fan malfunctions, you’ll need a professional to investigate. It’s especially important to get help if the unit ices over in the summer since that indicates a problem within the unit itself, not just the defrost mechanism.
Strange Smells
Sudden, unusual smells are another answer to the question, “How do you know if your heat pump is bad?” The appliance should not produce any smells at all, so if you notice a burning or musty smell, it’s time to do some investigation. Burning odors usually mean there’s an issue in the wiring or electrical connections, while a musty odor might indicate mold growth.
Unusual Sounds
Normally, heat pumps are whisper quiet, to the point where you might wonder if it’s running at all. That’s why any strange noises coming from it should trigger concern. If you hear anything other than a low hum, like rattling, banging, screeching, or squealing, call a Southport repair technician.
Increasing Energy Bills
Energy efficiency is one of the top reasons that Southport homeowners invest in heat pumps. Switching to one of these heaters can shave hundreds of dollars off your annual energy expenses. However, if you notice the bills going up without any other major changes, that’s a sign of trouble within the unit.
In the vast majority of cases, deferred maintenance is the reason for increasing bills. Regular maintenance helps keep all the major components in good condition, which reduces wear and tear on the equipment. When parts start to fail, the system has to work harder and use more power, leading to high energy bills.
Solve Your Southport Heat Pump Problems Fast
If you’re wondering how do you know if your heat pump is bad, or have any other concerns about your heater’s ability to keep your home comfortable, get in touch with Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair Heating, Air, & Plumbing. Our Southport, IN, experts can get your heat pump or furnace back up and running quickly with affordable, reliable repairs. We’re also here to provide regular heat pump maintenance, ensuring you don’t run into trouble and enjoy dependable heating and cooling, no matter the weather.