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Why Is My Heat Pump Running but Not Heating?
Your heat pump is running, but the house is still cold. Start with the thermostat and air filter. If those are set correctly and the house still does not reach the temperature you set, the heat pump needs to be checked.
Keep in mind that heat-pump air does not feel as hot as furnace air. The temperature in the house tells you if the system is keeping up.
Heat Pump Air May Feel Cooler Than Furnace Air
A furnace creates heat. A heat pump moves heat from outside into your home, so the air coming from the vents feels cooler than furnace air.
Heat pumps also run for longer stretches. If the house warms up and reaches the thermostat setting, the system is heating your home.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Make sure the thermostat is set to HEAT and the temperature is above the current room temperature.
Set the fan to AUTO instead of ON. With the fan set to ON, it keeps moving air between heating cycles, and that air feels cool.
If the thermostat shows AUX or EM HEAT, note what you see but do not change wiring or open the equipment.
Check the Air Filter
Check the filter if it is easy to reach. A filter packed with dirt restricts airflow and reduces the warm air moving through your home.
Common Reasons a Heat Pump Runs but Does Not Heat Properly
Outdoor Unit or Airflow Problem
The outdoor unit needs clear airflow to move heat into the house. Heavy debris around the unit or restricted airflow reduces heating performance.
Defrost-System Issue
The heat pump uses a defrost cycle to clear frost from the outdoor coil. Heavy ice that stays on the unit needs service.
Refrigerant-System Problem
Low refrigerant reduces the heat the system moves into your home. Refrigerant work needs to be done by a trained technician.
Reversing-Valve or Control Problem
The reversing valve switches the heat pump between heating and cooling. If the system does not switch into heating mode, the valve or controls need to be checked.
Auxiliary Heat Problem
Some systems use auxiliary heat when extra heating is needed. A problem with that equipment leaves the heat pump without that added heat.
Incorrect System Sizing
A heat pump that is too small for the house can run for long periods without getting rooms warm enough. New equipment needs to be selected for the heating and cooling needs of the home.
Why Is My Heat Pump Blowing Cool Air?
Pay attention to the room temperature instead of judging the system only by how the air feels at the vent.
If the heat pump keeps running while the room temperature stays below the thermostat setting, it is not providing enough heat.
What Is a Heat Pump Defrost Cycle?
Frost forms on the outdoor coil during some cold, damp weather. Defrost temporarily changes how the system operates so the outdoor coil warms up and clears the frost.
Auxiliary heat is used during defrost on some systems. Heavy ice that stays on the outdoor unit needs professional service.
When Should You Call for Heat Pump Repair?
Schedule service when the house does not reach the thermostat setting, heavy ice stays on the outdoor unit, or the heat pump repeatedly shuts down.
Breaker trips, new noises, and error codes also need a technician. Leave refrigerant, electrical, control, and internal equipment repairs to trained professionals.
Heat Pump Repair vs. Replacement
One failed part does not mean you need a new heat pump. If the rest of the equipment is in good condition, repair may make sense.
If the heat pump keeps breaking down or still cannot heat and cool the house after previous repairs, we can go over heat pump installation and replacement and your options for new equipment.
Heat Pump Service in Central Maryland
GAC provides heating services for heat pumps and other home heating equipment throughout Central Maryland.
Homes without ductwork use different equipment. Ductless heat pumps provide heating and cooling through individual indoor units instead of a central duct system.
GAC provides HVAC services in Gaithersburg for homeowners who need help with their heating or cooling equipment.
Schedule Heat Pump Service
Schedule Online (240) 224-0192Frequently Asked Questions
Check the thermostat and filter first. If the house still does not reach the temperature you set, the heat pump needs service.
Yes. Heat-pump air feels cooler than furnace air. The house should still reach the temperature set on the thermostat.
A filter packed with dirt restricts airflow and reduces the amount of heated air moving through the house.
Defrost warms the outdoor coil to clear frost that builds up during heating operation.
Call when the house stays cold, heavy ice remains on the outdoor unit, the system repeatedly shuts down, or you have breaker trips, new noises, or error codes.
