Your heat pump is an important part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s certain to encounter some problems every now and then.

Let’s go over these issues and how much they might cost to repair, so you’ll have some idea before you call an HVAC technician. Some of the most likely 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 Isn’t Turning On

There are plenty of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we recommend checking all of them. Sometimes they are as simple as correcting a thermostat setting or swapping your air filter.

Here’s what to check:

  • Is your thermostat on the correct setting? If you want cooling, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the room temperature. If you want heating, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should be higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, put in new the batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
  • Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to run if it does not have power. Reset the appropriate 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 A2Z Air Inc.

Estimated Repair Cost

This problem can be complicated, so how much it costs to fix it will depend on what’s wrong.

2. Heat Pump Stays On Constantly

If it’s very hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to run longer than normal to achieve your desired temperature.

If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set properly and operating normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will go 24/7. So, it’ll appear as though your heat pump is working all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels under control, but it’ll also drive up your electrical bills.

If your thermostat is set correctly, there are several other problems 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 connected to a few issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how elaborate 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 dissolve 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 blocked by snow, bushes or yard waste.
  • Your gutters are leaking water on top of your heat pump, creating an icy buildup.
  • A part is malfunctioning, 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 possible if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you find a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor close to the outdoor unit.

Estimated Repair Cost

Like we discussed before, there are a lot of reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a number estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent of the issue.

  • 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 Isn’t Cooling

Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be linked to many issues. We recommend checking for:

  • Ideal thermostat settings
  • Tripped circuit breakers
  • A clogged air filter
  • Ice on your heat pump

If there’s nothing wrong with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need help from an HVAC technician to diagnose a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we discussed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have an issue with its reversing valve, outdoor fan motor or a refrigerant leak.

Estimated Repair Costs

These repair costs are estimates. Your total charge may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the scope of the issue.

  • 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 more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
  • Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.

5. Heat Pump Has Trouble Turning On After A Thermostat Change

If your heat pump won’t turn on after switching the thermostat, the problem is probably connected to your new thermostat. While you can use just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t accurate for heat pumps, especially if you have 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 start in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.

A couple other common 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 wise to have a heating and cooling pro recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll avoid any compatibility or wiring problems.

Estimated Repair Costs

The cost of professional thermostat installation depends greatly on what type of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are cheaper, 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 connected to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We suggest checking for:

  • Correct 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 tricky to reach since it’s placed behind walls and several 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 issue.

  • Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
  • Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
  • Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump runs on. R-22 Freon is higher priced since it’s no longer being produced.
  • Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.

Take Care of Those Heat Pump Problems Right Away with Help from Local Experts

Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you call A2Z Air Inc. Our pros have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Boynton Beach homeowners have depended on since 2005. Call us at 561-270-6228 to request your free estimate now.

Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.