A heat pump is essentially an air conditioner that can reverse to operate as a furnace. Instead of having separate units for heating and cooling the heat pump is all-in-one offering convenience. Another key difference is that heat pumps move heat rather than generate it. In geographic areas without long-lasting extremes of temperatures a heat pump offers an alternative that is also energy efficient.
Knowing some of the typical issues that might arise with a heat pump and knowing where to begin troubleshooting will behoove you when it pertains to Heat Pump Services in Mount Vernon. Some of the common issues homeowners encounter with heat pumps include:
- Icing -; It is not unusual for a heat pump to have a coat of frost or even a light layer of ice on its sides during the cold season. Heat pumps typically will cycle into a defrost mode to get rid of the frost. Signs of potential problems include coils covered with ice or if the unit is covered with a heavy layer of ice or snow. A covering of snow or ice inhibits the heat pump’s operation by restricting the transfer of heat. These issues need to be addressed quickly by an expert such as those at before permanent damage occurs.
- Running Without Stopping -; Before calling for service ensure that the thermostat is set on the correct mode; cooling for summer and heating for winter. If the unit runs constantly in the summer, it might be trying to reach a lower setting during a heat wave. It is not unusual for heat pumps to run longer in the winter in comparison with a furnace, however, when the temperature is above freezing and the unit does not cycle off, you may need Heat Pump Services in Mount Vernon.
- Blowing Cold in Heat Mode -; Again, always check to make sure the thermostat is set to the correct mode. Then inspect the heat pump for ice or snow coverage. If these checkout, then the problem might be a valve-related problem, a refrigerant charging issue, or a compressor malfunction.
Heat pumps require routine maintenance and if the unit has not been cleaned or maintained properly performance may suffer. If you experience repeated problems or the unit doesn’t meet your needs, it may be that the unit is not the correct size for the home or the structure is inadequately insulated causing too much heat loss.
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