Average Repair Prices For Six Common Heat Pump Issues
Your heat pump is an essential part of your home because it delivers year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s bound to have some issues every now and then.
Let’s go over these issues and how much they might cost to fix, so you’ll have some idea before you call an HVAC technician. Some of the most common heat pump repair problems include:
- Heat pump won’t turn on
- Heat pump won’t turn off
- Heat pump won’t defrost
- Heat pump won’t cool
- Heat pump won’t turn on after changing thermostat
- Heat pump won’t heat
1. Heat Pump Can’t Start
There are a lot of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we recommend checking all of them. Sometimes they are as easy as fixing a thermostat setting or changing your air filter.
Here’s what to check:
- Is your thermostat on the proper setting? If you want cooling, make sure it’s set to “cool,” or “auto” and that your setting is lower than the current temperature. If you want heating, it should be set to “heat,” or “auto” and your setting should be higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, put in new batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
- Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to run if it lacks power. Reset the corresponding breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
- Is the air filter dirty? A dirty air filter is problematic for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to replace it.
If these steps don’t fix the problem, you’ll need to contact a heating and cooling company like Tokay.
Estimated Repair Cost
This issue can be complex, so how much it costs to correct it will depend on what’s wrong.
2. Heat Pump Won’t Turn Off
If it’s extremely hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to run longer than normal to achieve your desired temperature.
If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set correctly and operating normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will go 24/7. So, it’ll sound like your heat pump is working all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels in check, but it’ll also increase your electrical bills.
If your thermostat is set properly, there are several other problems that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:
- A new thermostat that isn’t compatible with your heat pump.
- A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which controls the flow of electricity.
- Leaky ductwork.
Estimated Repair Cost
This can be linked to a few issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how difficult it is.
3. Heat Pump Can’t Remove Ice Buildup
Occasionally during cold weather, your heat pump will temporarily go into cooling mode. This will melt light frost and ice that normally builds up on the coils. A heat pump that becomes heavily iced over may struggle to heat your home or shut down altogether.
Here are a few reasons why this might be happening:
- Your heat pump doesn’t have sufficient airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
- Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, producing an icy buildup.
- A part is not working, which may involve the reversing valve, relays, controls or sensors.
- The outdoor fan motor is damaged, dying or dead.
- Your heat pump has a refrigerant leak. This is possible if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing sounds. Or if you notice a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor around the outdoor unit.
Estimated Repair Cost
Like we talked about before, there are a few reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a number of estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model, and the severity of the issue.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being produced.
4. Heat Pump Isn’t Cooling
Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many problems. We advise checking for:
- Correct thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
If there’s nothing awry with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need help from an HVAC technician to diagnose a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we discussed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have an issue with its reversing valve, outdoor fan motor or a refrigerant leak.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total expense may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the severity of the problem.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
5. Heat Pump Isn’t Starting After A Thermostat Change
If your heat pump won’t turn on after switching the thermostat, the problem is probably linked to your new thermostat. While you can install just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t true for heat pumps, especially if you need backup or emergency heating.
You can check your new thermostat by changing the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor start in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.
A couple of other typical thermostat problems involve:
- The wiring was done wrong.
- A thermostat isn’t interacting with a heat pump.
- A thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which involves a reset.
It’s wise to have a heating and cooling professional recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll avoid any compatibility or wiring issues.
Estimated Repair Costs
The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are less expensive, they are missing the sophisticated features and convenience of a smart thermostat.
6. Heat Pump Can’t Work in Heating Mode
A heat pump that won’t heat is connected to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We encourage checking for:
- Correct thermostat settings
- Tripped circuit breakers
- A clogged air filter
- Ice on your heat pump
An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the help of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is hard to reach since it’s located behind walls and several issues can cause your heat pump to freeze up.
Estimated Repair Costs
These repair costs are estimates. Your total cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent of the concern.
- Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
- Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
- Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the kind of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being manufactured.
- Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.
Resolve Any Heat Pump Problems Quickly and Affordably with Our Help
Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be irritating, but not when you contact Tokay. Our experts have been supplying the quality, affordable heat pump repair Lodi homeowners have depended on since 1989. Contact us at (209) 257-3156 to secure your free estimate now.
Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.
