No matter the appliance or fixture, if anything is leaking in your home, it’s generally a serious problem. Not only does it mean that you need to have your equipment repaired, but it also means you risk the chance of water damage, mold growth, and other issues from taking place in your home.
When you notice that your heat pump is leaking, it may mean that you’ve been neglecting heat pump tune-up services. If you notice that your heat pump is leaking water or any other type of fluid, you need to have a professional take a look at your unit right away.
As a homeowner, it’s important to learn about the ins and outs of your heat pump so you know how to handle certain situations if they ever arise. Heat pumps are versatile systems that provide solutions throughout the entire year. With that in mind, for them to run efficiently year-round, you need to follow a guide so you can properly maintain the system.
Is a Heat Pump Leak a Big Problem?
As far as HVAC problems go, a heat pump leaking water on the inside is not as serious as it may seem. This issue is actually not as weird or uncommon as you might first think, and while it does usually require professional heat pump repair, the labor is typically short, simple, and affordable. So, while the issue needs to be addressed, a leak is not as serious as your heat pump making loud noises or other problems.
Leaking water is not too serious in itself, but if left unattended, it could lead to costly issues with your unit. Beyond the potential for water damage and mold growth in your home, standing water within the system can cause component wear and electrical issues. If not addressed, standing water can eventually cause the heat pump to not turn on, creating a more serious problem.
What Causes Heat Pump Leaks?
Since both a heat pump and your run-of-the-mill air conditioning system use the basic principles of refrigeration, many of the potential causes are very similar or the same.
The most common causes of a heat pump leak include:
- Presence of Ice or Frost in the Pump: There are many reasons why your heat pump can have ice forming on the coils. These can include simple problems like air flow (usually a dirty air filter) or bigger problems like low refrigerant levels. In the case of low refrigerant, you’ll want an expert to locate the leak and fix it right away to avoid losing cooling power.
- Cracked Overflow Pan: Similar to an air conditioner, a heat pump pulls humidity out of the air as part of its cooling process. The humidity then collects on the coils and most normally drips down into the drain/overflow pan. Over time, a pan may begin to corrode, which causes cracking that will result in plenty of water finding its way onto your floors.
- A Clogged Condensate Drain: The condensate drain system relies upon a few tubes to carry moisture out and away from your home. Physical blockages aren’t all that unheard of and can result in a physical blockage that stops flow. When this happens, the water will back up until it begins to flow out of the drain pan.
If you notice any of these symptoms with your heat pump system, you may benefit from having your unit serviced by a professional HVAC technician.
What if It’s Winter?
If your heat pump is in mode in the winter and you notice it’s leaking, especially if it is an outdoor unit, it might not be an issue at all. The heat pump incorporates a defrost cycle to prevent ice buildup on the exterior unit, causing periodic moisture release. This is generally normal. Only if the defrost cycle malfunctions and leads to the unit freezing up should you be concerned about the heat pump leaking. Addressing such issues promptly is crucial for optimal heat pump performance.
If you’re frustrated or stressed about a leaking heat pump, take precautions and reach out to professionals who know how to fix a heat pump that’s leaking water. Our team of experts at GAC Services is here to help you with any issues your heat pump is experiencing.
Contact us today when you need heat pump repairs in Montgomery County, Frederick County, Carroll County, or Howard County, Maryland. We’ll listen to your concerns and find the right solution to stop the leak in your heat pump.
