If you own a heat pump in Winder, GA, you undoubtedly appreciate its versatility when it comes to our unpredictable weather. You may find that you’re switching from heating to cooling mode and vice versa from one day to the next with our extreme temperature fluctuations.
So it can be incredibly frustrating when your heat pump won’t switch modes anymore. Although there’s one thing you can try that might solve this issue, it’s usually a problem that’s big enough to warrant heat pump repair. Here’s what could be going wrong.
The Air Filter Needs to Be Changed
This is the potential cause behind a heat pump that’s not blowing decidedly hot or cold air. When the airflow is lukewarm, it could seem like the heat pump isn’t switching modes. You’ll also notice that the airflow is decreased or weak if it’s an air filter issue.
If you’re great at changing the air filter every 1-2 months, it’s not likely going to be the issue. But if your mind is saying, “When’s the last time I changed the air filter?” this could be the problem.
Check the air filter and give it a visual inspection. A new air filter looks, well, new and clean. If yours is grey, dusty, dirty, and covered with gunk, put a new one in then see if that fixes the problem.
The Reversing Valve Is Broken
Your heat pump’s ability to switch from heating to cooling and vice versa hinges on this essential component that’s only found in heat pumps. The aptly named reversing valve allows the heat pump to “reverse” the flow of refrigerant. This reversal is how the heat pump switches modes.
If your heat pump won’t switch modes and is blowing cold air in heating mode, or hot air in cooling mode, 9 times out of 10, it’s because of the reversing valve. However, this isn’t a DIY fix. You’ll need to schedule service with one of our technicians who will inspect the reversing valve, determine if it can be fixed, or replace it with a new one if necessary.
There’s a Refrigerant Leak
This is another sneaky culprit that’ll make it seem like a heat pump isn’t switching modes when really it’s just struggling to both heat and cool. Just like with the air filter, the symptoms are lukewarm air and decreased airflow.
A heat pump works like an air conditioner and needs a full charge of refrigerant to operate. Just like AC systems, heat pumps are subject to refrigerant leaks for the same reasons they occur in a central AC. Wear and tear, corrosion, and damage can cause a leak.
If this is the problem, we’ll need to pinpoint the sources of the leaks. We’ll patch them up and recharge the refrigerant level. Then your heat pump should continue to provide unparalleled heating and cooling in your home no matter the season.
Contact the team at American Comfort Heating and Cooling for heat pump repair in Winder, GA. Bringing Comfort to America, One Home at a Time.
