As the summer temperatures heat up, you will be relying more and more on your heat pump to stay cool. Unfortunately, this can place additional strain on the system, increasing the chances that a problem will develop. If you want to ensure that your system is in good condition, you should be aware of the common problems which can arise with your heat pump.
Leaking Refrigerant:
The refrigerant is the life’s blood of your air conditioning system. This coolant is recycled back and forth by the heat pump to allow heat to be transferred from inside your home to the outdoors. This means that if your system develops a refrigerant leak, it can be a serious issue. When the refrigerant is leaking from the heat pump, you will find that the system output will drop. Depending on the size of the refrigerant leak, this decline in performance can be slow or rapid. Eventually, when the refrigerant levels fall too low, components will malfunction, and the unit will break down. Leaking refrigerant can sometimes be difficult to detect, but if you notice fluid dripping from the heat pump or stains under the unit, you will need to call for professional advice as soon as possible.
Iced Pipes:
Another common summer heat pump issue is ice on the heat pump coil or surrounding pipes. Ice is usually a result of an air handler issue or refrigerant problem. Unfortunately, it can have severe consequences on the performance of your system. If the coil has become frozen, it will no longer be able to siphon heat from the air inside your home. This will result in your heat pump output to significantly drop. The icing up can spread through the system and cause other components to fail. To address the problem, the underlying cause needs to be detected and corrected to restore proper function.
Constant Running:
During the more frequent use of your heat pump in summer, you may notice that the system is struggling to maintain a cool temperature. The system is designed to turn on and off to maintain the desired temperature. If the system is struggling, it can lead to it constantly running, which can dramatically increase wear and tear. There are a number of reasons why this can occur, including an undersized system, the unit is reaching the end of its lifespan or thermostat issues. To avoid a catastrophic breakdown, it is important to have your system inspected and any underlying issues diagnosed and corrected.
Most homeowners are aware of the importance of regular servicing and maintenance to keep a heat pump running efficiently. Unfortunately, the increased demands of the hot summer temperatures can place a real strain on your heat pump. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of how your system is performing. By keeping an eye on how your system is operating, you can detect if a minor issue is developing. This can provide the opportunity to have preventative maintenance and repairs performed to keep your system running throughout the summer.