WeldIf you’ve recently made the switch to a heat pump and it’s your first summer using one, you might be scratching your head wondering, “Why isn’t my heat pump cooling the house?” This is a common question among homeowners who are new to heat pump technology. At Affordable Home Services, we help homeowners troubleshoot and maintain heat pumps all year long. Whether it’s something simple or a more serious issue, we’re here to help you understand what might be going wrong and what to do next.
Heat Pump Basics: What to Expect
Heat pumps are an efficient and eco-friendly way to both heat and cool your home. Instead of generating heat like a furnace, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another. In the summer, it moves heat from inside your home to the outside, just like a traditional air conditioner.
But because heat pumps look and work a bit differently than systems you may be used to, it’s easy to misinterpret what’s normal and what isn’t. Here’s what to check if your heat pump isn’t keeping you cool this summer.
Common Reasons Your Heat Pump Isn’t Cooling
1. Thermostat Settings Need Adjusting
The first step is to check your thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “Cool” mode and that the temperature is set a few degrees below the current indoor temperature. Sometimes, the system may still be in heating mode from spring, especially if you haven’t updated your settings.
If your thermostat is programmable or smart, double-check your programmed schedules to ensure cooling is enabled at the right times.
2. Air Filter Is Dirty
A clogged or dirty air filter can severely restrict airflow, preventing your heat pump from properly cooling your home. When air can’t move freely, the system struggles to remove heat and humidity, leaving your indoor environment feeling stuffy or warm.
Solution: Replace the air filter and check it monthly during the cooling season.
3. Outdoor Unit Is Obstructed or Dirty
Your heat pump’s outdoor unit plays a key role in releasing heat from your home. If it’s covered in debris, leaves, or overgrown plants, it won’t function efficiently.
Solution: Clear at least two feet of space around the unit and gently rinse it with a hose if needed. If it still doesn’t cool, give us a call.
4. Low Refrigerant or a Leak
Just like an air conditioner, your heat pump relies on refrigerant to move heat. If your system has a refrigerant leak, it won’t be able to cool your home effectively. You might notice weak airflow, ice on the coil, or warm air blowing from the vents.
Solution: This isn’t a DIY fix—contact Affordable Home Services to inspect and recharge the refrigerant.
5. Reversing Valve Is Stuck
The reversing valve is what allows your heat pump to switch between heating and cooling modes. If it gets stuck, your system may stay in heating mode even when you want it to cool your home.
Solution: This is a mechanical issue that requires professional repair. If you suspect your system is stuck in heating mode, call our team for a fast and accurate diagnosis.
Trust Affordable Home Services for Expert Heat Pump Help
Whether you’re new to heat pumps or a seasoned user, it’s important to understand that these systems need regular maintenance and occasional repairs—just like any HVAC equipment. At Affordable Home Services, we specialize in keeping your heat pump running smoothly and efficiently year-round.
Where quality and integrity meet… it’s not cheap, it’s Affordable.