If you’re using a heat pump to stay warm this winter, you should be careful of any problems that may show up. Demand on the system is much higher during this time than in fall or spring, and that means that the heat pump is more likely to need repairs. Read on to find out more about some of the common problems that might afflict the heat pump.
Ice
Even in areas where the temperature doesn’t dip below freezing, ice can form on the outside of the heat pump. This is because the system evaporates refrigerant to absorb thermal energy from the air around it. If the air around the heat pump is already quite cold, absorbing the thermal energy it has left in it can be enough to push it below freezing. This causes the condensate on the heat pump to freeze into ice. As the ice covers the heat pump, it can prevent it from absorbing enough thermal energy to heat the home properly. There is a defrost cycle to prevent this from happening, but if that fails, the system could be in trouble. Call for repairs if you notice that the system is more than half-covered in ice.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the core of the heat pump. The system evaporates and condenses refrigerant between its two units in order to absorb heat from outside, and vent it inside. If a leak develops in the refrigerant line, it will slowly deprive the system of output until it breaks down entirely. If you notice a drop in output, or if you see liquid dripping from your system, call for repairs right away.
Touchstone Heating & Air Inc. provides heat pump repair services throughout Macclenny, FL. If you need heat pump repairs, call today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.