As temperatures rise in Alexandria, VA, many homeowners rely on their heat pumps to keep their homes cool and comfortable. If your system isn’t performing as expected, don’t panic—many common issues have simple solutions. Before reaching out to professionals like Thomas J Fannon and Sons Inc, here are some basic troubleshooting steps that could help resolve your heat pump problems.
1. Heat Pump Not Cooling
If your heat pump isn’t cooling your home effectively, start by checking the thermostat settings. Make sure it’s set to cool mode and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Also, inspect the air filters—clogged filters restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. Clean or replace them if needed.
Dirty coils or low refrigerant levels can also affect cooling performance. While you can clean the coils gently with a garden hose (with the power off), refrigerant issues should be handled by a professional.
2. Heat Pump Running Constantly in Mild Weather
It’s normal for heat pumps to run more frequently during very hot days. However, if it runs continuously during mild temperatures, this may point to:
- An incorrectly sized system
- A faulty or miscalibrated thermostat
- Dirty air filters or coils
- A malfunctioning sensor or control board
Check the filters and thermostat first. If those aren’t the issue, it may be time for a service call.
3. Heat Pump Blowing Warm Air in Cool Mode
If your heat pump is set to cool but is blowing warm air, confirm that the thermostat is in the correct mode. Also, check if the system has accidentally entered defrost mode, which is designed for winter operation but could be triggered by a sensor error.
If the warm air persists, the issue might be a stuck reversing valve or a refrigerant problem—both of which require professional attention.
4. Heat Pump Not Turning On
A non-functioning unit can often be traced to power issues:
- Check that the thermostat has working batteries (if applicable).
- Ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Make sure the power switch on the indoor unit is turned on.
If none of these solve the issue, there may be a problem with the contactor, capacitor, or internal wiring.
5. Unusual Noises from Your Heat Pump
Some sounds during operation are normal—especially during mode changes—but loud or persistent noises like banging, screeching, or humming can indicate trouble. Possible causes include:
- Loose or damaged components
- Debris caught in the fan
- Failing motor or compressor
Turn off the unit and call a technician if you hear concerning noises.
When to Call a Professional
While simple issues like dirty filters or thermostat settings can often be resolved by homeowners, more complex problems such as refrigerant leaks, faulty electrical components, or compressor failures should be addressed by licensed HVAC professionals.
Trust Thomas J Fannon and Sons Inc for Reliable Service
If your troubleshooting efforts haven’t restored your heat pump’s performance, the team at Thomas J Fannon and Sons Inc in Alexandria, VA, is here to help. Our experienced technicians provide prompt, expert service to ensure your system is running smoothly—keeping your home cool all summer long.
📞 Call us at (703) 549-5700 or fill out our online form to schedule service today. We’re committed to your comfort and satisfaction—season after season.
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