Heat pumps are an excellent and efficient HVAC option for Denver, CO, homes. However, they’re machines, and like any other machine, they can break down. If you own a heat pump that won’t turn on, though, it’s easy to panic and assume the worst. Before you do, though, it’s a good idea to try and troubleshoot the problem. Here are some common reasons why a heat pump would fail to turn on and what to do about it.
A Problem With Your Thermostat
Believe it or not, plenty of heat pump problems begin and end with the thermostat controlling them. If your thermostat isn’t working properly, your heat pump won’t work correctly either. So, the first thing to check if your heat pump won’t turn on is your thermostat. First, make sure that your thermostat is reading the correct temperature by putting a thermometer nearby. If it is, check your thermostat to make sure it’s in the right mode. If your thermostat accidentally gets switched to its heat or cool setting at the wrong time, it won’t function correctly. Then, make sure that you have your desired temperature set and that your thermostat isn’t following a schedule. Some thermostats won’t allow you to override a temperature schedule unless you switch them to manual mode.
A Heat Pump Power Failure
Another common problem that might prevent your heat pump from turning on is a power failure. To figure out if this is your issue, take a look at your home’s main circuit breaker box. Look for the breaker that operates your heat pump’s power circuit. If it’s in the off position, your heat pump won’t turn on. Flip the breaker to the on position and see if it solves your problem. Be aware, however, that a tripped circuit breaker could be a sign that your heat pump has an electrical issue. So, if the breaker trips again within a short time, don’t turn it on again. Instead, call Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical so we can find and fix the issue for you.
A Malfunctioning Reversing Valve
The most unique thing about heat pumps is that they feature reversible refrigerant flow. That’s how they’re able to serve as a heating and cooling system in one small package. However, that ability rests on the functionality of a single component called a reversing valve. If your heat pump’s reversing valve gets stuck or malfunctions, it may prevent your heat pump from turning on. There’s no sure way for you to diagnose this issue, though. A heat pump that works in one mode but not the other could indicate a reversing valve problem. If this describes your heat pump issue, you should call Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical for a repair appointment. Typically, replacing a heat pump reversing valve takes a few hours to complete. Afterward, your heat pump should work normally again.
Faulty Start Capacitor
When your heat pump first turns on, it draws a huge amount of electricity from its power circuit. When that happens, it would trip the circuit’s breaker if not for a small device called a start capacitor. It acts like a high-voltage rechargeable battery that provides the extra boost your heat pump needs to turn on. If that capacitor fails or malfunctions, it could prevent your heat pump from turning on. Sometimes, a faulty start capacitor will emit a humming sound when you try to turn on your heat pump. The sound would come from your heat pump’s outdoor unit. However, if the capacitor fails completely, it may not make any sounds at all. Instead, a faulty or failed capacitor could create a burning smell. That’s the material inside the capacitor overheating and breaking down. The good news is that a capacitor replacement is a simple repair for a trained HVAC technician. So, if you hear any odd sounds or smell a burning smell, turn off the power to your heat pump. Then call us, and we’ll take care of the problem for you.
A Frozen Heat Pump
Another thing that could cause your heat pump to not turn on is if its outdoor unit freezes up. This is actually quite common during extremely cold weather. The good news is that your heat pump has a built-in defrost mode to solve the problem when necessary. That mode temporarily switches your heat pump to cooling mode to push hot refrigerant through the outdoor coils. In some cases, it’s easy to mistake this mode for a malfunction. But if you wait a few minutes for the defrost cycle to finish, it should go back to working as you expect. If not, there could be something causing your heat pump to freeze more often than normal. Often, this is a result of obstructed airflow around your outdoor unit. So, take a look outside and see if there’s any debris around the outdoor unit.
Here in Denver, snow accumulation is a common culprit that causes frozen heat pumps. If clearing the area doesn’t resolve your issue, it’s possible that your heat pump isn’t suited for cold weather. To find out, consult its manual to find out its operating temperature range. If the outside temperature falls below that range often, you may want to consider replacing your heat pump. Modern cold-weather heat pumps will work when it’s as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Plus, they don’t rely on inefficient heat strips in the winter, saving you even more money.
A Malfunctioning Blower
Finally, if your heat pump’s blower motor malfunctions, it will prevent your system from turning on. The blower motor is part of your heat pump’s indoor unit. If you call for heating and cooling, it should activate almost immediately. So, if you can hear and see your outdoor unit turning on, listen to your indoor unit. If you don’t hear anything, your blower fan may have failed. This is another malfunction that’s best left to a professional. If you believe that your heat pump has a failed blower motor, you should turn off your system and call for a repair appointment. In some cases, a simple drive belt replacement may be all you need to get your heat pump running again. Even a full blower motor replacement is a straightforward job. In either case, there’s no need to worry too much.
Your Trusted Local Heat Pump Specialists
No matter what’s causing the heat pump in your Denver home to not turn on, Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical can help. We’ve served local residents since 1998, offering quality affordable HVAC services. We offer comprehensive plumbing, electrical, ductwork, and air quality services, too. We’re also a Lennox Premier Dealer, so we sell the finest HVAC systems on the market. And you can always trust us to deliver flawless customer service, as our A+ Better Business Bureau rating indicates. For further proof, check out our long list of positive customer reviews. Then, when you need heat pump repairs in Denver, call the experts at Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical and leave the rest to us.
