Experiencing a heat pump malfunction can be frustrating, mainly when you rely on it for year-round comfort. So, why is your heat pump not working? From potential thermostat glitches and refrigerant concerns to more complex compressor or electrical problems, the source of your frustration could be numerous unidentified issues. Therefore, if your heat pump is giving you trouble, join the 360 Comfort Systems team as we break down why this might be happening in your home.

Why is my outside heat pump unit not turning on?

If your exterior heat pump compartment is not turning on, it may be due to one of the following issues:

Problems with the thermostat: The heat pump may not start on due to insufficient battery power, incorrect thermostat settings, or problems with mode selection.
Replaced fuse or tripped breaker: The electrical panel’s blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker may have caused the heat pump’s power supply to disconnect.
Unplugged power source: The operation of the unit may be impeded by loose or broken electrical wiring between the outside unit and the power supply.
Faulty contactor: The compressor and other parts cannot get power if the contactor, which is an electrical switch, malfunctions.
Problems with refrigerant: Leaks or low refrigerant levels can interfere with the heat pump’s capacity to function correctly.
Broken capacitor: The inability of the compressor to operate correctly could affect the operation of the complete heat pump system.
Freezing conditions: The exterior unit may momentarily switch off in extremely cold conditions in order to avoid damage.

It is best to speak with a certified HVAC technician if your home’s exterior heat pump compartment is not working so you can receive a professional diagnosis and appropriate repairs. Without the necessary knowledge, attempting to solve these issues may result in further difficulties and possible safety risks.

How do you reset your heat pump?

There are a few steps involved in resetting a heat pump, but it’s important to remember that not all problems can be fixed with a simple reset. First, check for any evident issues, such as blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, or thermostat problems, before attempting to reset the system. This is a basic how-to for resetting your heat pump:

Turn off the power: Find the electrical disconnect switch next to the outside unit to turn off the power. It may be located in a little box. Switch the lever from on to off.
Disconnect the thermostat: Turn the thermostat off. If at all possible, turn off the electrical panel’s breakers that have been specifically set up for the indoor unit.
Wait a bit: Give the heat pump at least 10 to 15 minutes to rest.
Restore power: Flip the switch or turn the electrical switch back to the “on” position. If the breakers are off, turn them back on.
Turn on the thermostat: Turn on the thermostat and adjust the temperature and mode.
Observe the system’s operation: Keep an eye out for any activity from the heat pump. Inspect whether the air is moving as it should be and listen for typical noises like the fan turning on.
In the event that your heat pump malfunctions or keeps having issues even after being reset, you should get in touch with an expert HVAC technician as soon as possible. Their proficiency in identifying and resolving intricate problems ensures the safe and effective functioning of your heat pump equipment following their visit.

What is the average lifespan of a heat pump?

A heat pump usually lasts between 15 and 20 years on average. Nonetheless, a number of variables may affect a heat pump’s actual lifespan:

Usage patterns: The heat pump’s longevity is influenced by both the frequency of use and how it is used. Regular year-round use can lead to more wear and tear compared to those who only use their heat pump occasionally.
Maintenance: To ensure a heat pump operates at its best and lasts a long time, regular maintenance is essential. Regular professional maintenance and homeowner care can extend the lifespan.
Quality of installation: A heat pump cannot function well unless it is installed correctly. Units with poor installation may wear down more quickly and have a shorter service life.
Climate: The heat pump’s lifespan may be affected by the climate in the area where it is installed. The parts of the system may be impacted by severe weather, high humidity, or low temperatures.
Manufacturer and model: The lifespan of the unit might be affected by the heat pump’s quality and the manufacturer’s reputation. Trusted manufacturers may provide higher-quality products with longer lifespans.

Homeowners should be mindful of the early signals of an aged heat pump, which include higher energy usage, decreased efficiency, and more frequent service calls. Ultimately, it’s important to think about replacement when a heat pump nears the end of its anticipated lifespan in order to maintain a comfortable home interior for you and your family.

Is your home’s heat pump acting up or near the end of its service life? If so, the professional and experienced HVAC team from 360 Comfort Systems is here to help. Our certified HVAC technicians are available for repair and maintenance services 24/7/365 days a year, including after-hours, weekends, and holidays, at no extra cost!

Furthermore, if your home’s heat pump system is beyond repair, one of our technicians will help you set up a consultation appointment with one of our home comfort advisors so you can learn more about our discounts and financing options. All consultations also include a complimentary new system purchase quote.

Reach out to us directly or use our online booking form! We look forward to working with you.