Heat Pump

In Orlando’s mild climate, heat pumps pull double duty as both heaters and air conditioners. Unlike a conventional system with separate central air conditioner and furnace, some components get all four seasons of wear and tear. And without the seasonal downtime when a standard furnace or A/C gets maintenance checkups, unexplained symptoms may crop up. Heat pump technology is straightforward, but a few guidelines for troubleshooting problems — and knowing when to call an HVAC pro — may come in handy:

Insufficient Heating Or Cooling

• Make sure the thermostat setting is correct.
• Clean or replace the system air filter if it’s dirty.
• If heat is insufficient, check the auxiliary heating elements for proper operation.
• Clean the condenser coils outside.

Heat Pump Cycles On and Off Inconsistently

• This is normally a symptom of insufficient airflow or thermostat malfunction.
• Check the air filter and clean or replace.
• Turn the thermostat further down if in cooling mode or up if in heating mode and observe the results.
• If the thermostat exceeds the set temperature without activating the pump, call an HVAC technician.

Heat Pump Trips Circuit Breaker

• Check to see if the condenser coil is covered with ice. If it is, turn off the unit until the ice melts.
• While you’re waiting, look for any problems that restrict airflow and lead to ice accumulation. Check the filter and clean or replace if necessary.
• If the breaker trips in heating mode only, the auxiliary heating elements may be drawing too much current. Call an HVAC technician for further service.

Blower Doesn’t Operate

• Check the fan switch on the thermostat and turn it to “off” or “auto.”  If it is already at one of those settings, the limit switch may need adjustment.
• Follow the steps to adjust the limit switch in your owner’s manual or consult an HVAC service technician.
• If you can hear the blower motor running but the fan doesn’t turn, replace the fan belt or contact a service technician.

Since 1969, Rinaldi’s Air Conditioning has been the quality leader in central Florida. Contact us for more heat pump advice, or to schedule a service visit.