If your house is never warm enough, even with the heat pump on full blast, you’ve got a problem. The good news is, not every issue requires an expensive repair. Sometimes it’s a simple DIY fix.
In this guide, we walk you through the most common reasons why a heat pump won’t heat, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when to consider replacement.
Easy Troubleshooting Steps for a Heat Pump that Won’t Heat
Before calling in the pros, try these quick fixes:
1.Check Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is on, set to "heat," and that the temperature is high enough. Also, double-check the fan setting (“auto” usually works best). If your thermostat screen is blank, it might just need new batteries. Try replacing them and see if your heat pump kicks back on. You may also need to reset the thermostat.
2. Look for Tripped Breakers
If your heat pump isn’t running at all, the problem might be as simple as a tripped breaker. Head to your electrical panel and, if there is a tripped breaker, reset it.
3. Clean Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making it hard for warm air to circulate. Take a look at your filter. If it’s covered in dust, clean or replace it. This should ideally be done every 1–3 months to keep your heat pump running effectively and efficiently.
4. Check for Ice
If it’s especially cold outside, ice can build up on the outdoor unit and stop it from transferring heat properly. Most heat pumps have a defrost cycle, but if yours is not defrosting properly, it may need help. Keep an eye on it—a little ice isn’t a big deal, but if it gets worse, give us a call.
5. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Things like overgrown landscaping, patio furniture, and even kids' toys that get left around your outdoor unit can block airflow and stop it from heating properly. Take a minute to check around your outdoor unit and clear away any debris.
When to Call a Pro for Bigger Heat Pump Issues
If you’ve tried all the fixes above and your heat pump is still not heating enough, there may be a more serious problem. Give Total Home Performance a call, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of it. You could be dealing with:
1. Wrong Size System
If your heat pump has always struggled to heat your home, it may be improperly sized. A unit that’s too small can’t keep up with demand, and one that’s too big tends to short-cycle (turn on and then quickly off again).
Unfortunately, a wrong-sized system usually needs to be replaced. At Total Home Performance, we run load calculations to size your system correctly for your home so you never run into this problem again.
2. A Leaky or Poorly Insulated House
If your home is under-insulated or full of air leaks, no heat pump will be able to keep it warm. This is because heat is constantly escaping while cold rushes in, and your heat pump just can’t keep up.
At Total Home Performance, we look at your entire house, not just your heat pump, to find out what’s really causing the problem. That way, you aren’t throwing money at constant heat pump repairs when you really need better insulation and air sealing.
3. Damaged or Malfunctioning Parts
Worn-out or broken compressors, reversing valves, or capacitors can stop your heat pump from working properly. You might be able to repair or replace the part, depending on the extent of the problem. But, if it’s serious or ongoing, a new heat pump could be a better option.
When to Repair vs Replace a Heat Pump That Won’t Heat
If your heat pump isn’t heating enough, it can probably be fixed. But there’s a point where constant repairs stop making financial sense. Here’s how to know when it’s time to replace an old heat pump instead of sinking more money into repairs.
Your Heat Pump Is Over 10 Years Old
If your heat pump is over 10–15 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan. It doesn’t make sense to put thousands of dollars into a heat pump repair when you’re going to have to replace the system soon anyway.
The Repair Costs Are Too High
Sometimes, the numbers just don’t make sense when it comes to heat pump repair. If the repair is going to cost more than half the price of a new system, you’re almost always better off replacing it.
Also, remember: if the problem is due to poor insulation, replacing the heat pump won’t solve anything. A home energy assessment can help determine the best improvements to keep your home warm and comfortable.