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Heat Pump Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

Image of Amanda Triolo - CEO of Grasshopper
Amanda August, CEO of Grasshopper Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
Published December 31, 2024
Heat Pump Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

When you don’t have a comfortable climate inside your home because of a malfunctioning heat pump, you may be unsure of what to do. Could you try a couple of heat pump troubleshooting techniques before you reach out for repair? Usually, it’s a smarter option to call for professional heat pump service from locals like Grasshopper Heating & Cooling.

Read on to learn more about some common issues that can affect your heat pump efficiency.

Heat Pump Won’t Start

Heat pumps that won’t start when you need them for heating or cooling could have many different causes for acting up. For example:

  • Always check for a dirty air filter. Replace it with a clean one to see if the heat pump responds.
  • Recalibrate the system. Improper calibration of the thermostat settings could cause an issue. Look at the thermostat and make sure it’s ready to run with a fresh battery. 
  • Check the status of the outdoor unit. Make sure you don’t have tree branches or other plants blocking the airflow around the heat pump’s outdoor unit. Free air movement helps the system avoid overheating and allows for proper heat dissipation.

During winter, heat pumps can also end up with a layer of frost or ice on them. Turn on the heat pump’s defrost mode or call for repair help.

Heat Pump Won’t Stop Running

A heat pump that won’t stop running is a sign of a major problem. The unit should shut down for a few minutes at least a few times per hour, even in extremely hot or bitterly cold weather.

Check the thermostat’s settings. What’s the status of the filter? These could both be causing a constantly running heat pump.

Leaking Liquid Near the Heat Pump

If you notice liquid on the ground near a heat pump that isn’t running properly, you might have a refrigerant leak. This problem goes beyond simple heat pump troubleshooting. You need to call our heat pump repair experts for help right away.

A lack of refrigerant can cause the system to operate inefficiently or to break down prematurely. However, the more immediate problem is the substance itself. Leaks can harm nearby plants or put your pets and children in danger upon contact with the refrigerant.

Odd Noises and Smells

If you notice odd noises or smells coming from the heat pump, it could indicate:

  • A loose part
  • A failing motor
  • A refrigerant leak
  • A wiring problem
  • An overheating system

You rarely can fix the various problems that cause odd smells and noises on your own. Call a repair technician. These problems worsen over time without intervention.

Let Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Help Fix Your Heat Pump

If your heat pump troubleshooting techniques aren’t working to give your home the comfort you want, it’s time to reach out for help. At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, we deliver repair services that will have your heat pump running like new again. To set up an appointment or to learn more about why your heat pump may be malfunctioning, call us today at (518) 541-7979.


Image of Amanda Triolo - CEO of Grasshopper
Amanda August

Amanda August is the CEO of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, a rapidly growing HVAC company based in Albany, New York. She leads by focusing on creating opportunities that positively impact both employees and customers.


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“He installed our new unit a little over a year ago. He is professional, courteous and very knowledgeable – and willing to answer lots of questions from this engineer. Today he came back to trouble shoot an issue we were having, had it resolved in no time, and waived the diagnostic fee. Highly recommend.”

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