5 Common Heat Pump Problems (& What To Do About Them)
Heat pumps are becoming more and more popular as an efficient choice of home heating system in Ireland. They offer a range of benefits, including the fact that they a great way to save on energy bills while also helping the country to meet its net-zero energy goals for home heating. However, they are not totally infallible – particularly if something goes wrong at the installation stage. Here are the top 5 most common heat pump problems, as well as the best ways to solve them.
Short Cycling
Short cycling is one of the more common heat pump problems you may encounter with your own system. This problem essentially occurs when the heat pump turns on and off far more than it should, which significantly impacts the system’s energy efficiency and generally increases wear and tear.
Short cycling is more often than not caused by an imperfect installation, but can also be related to incorrect thermostat calibration or issues with your refrigerant levels.
Frozen Outdoor Unit
It’s not uncommon for an outdoor unit to develop a layer of frost during the winter, and it should melt away quite quickly during a defrost cycle. However, if the unit becomes completely frozen over and does not thaw itself out, this indicates a significant problem with your unit.
Blocked airflow, refrigerant leakage or malfunction are the usual heat pump problems that can cause severe levels of frost buildup. Do not attempt to scrape off the ice yourself, as it could cause severe damage to the unit. Instead, be sure to contact a professional to have your unit repaired.
Poor Airflow
Clogged air filters or other blockages in the system can cause weak airflow, which can in turn lead to uneven temperatures and higher energy consumption. It’s recommended that you regularly check and clean out your air filters to ensure optimal airflow through your system. If this does not solve your problem, it’s worth calling a professional to inspect the ductwork and motor for any debris or damage.
Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most severe heat pump problems in cold weather that will impact performance is a refrigerant leak. These leaks can be caused by all kinds of issues, particularly mishandling during installation. The main problem caused by a refrigerant leak is a massive drop in efficiency, so if you notice that your system isn’t heating or cooling your home properly then it could be due to a leak.
Remember that refrigerant is highly hazardous and should not be handled by anybody who isn’t a properly equipped and trained professional. A refrigerant leak must be handled according to specific safety regulations, so contact a professional ASAP.
Sensor Issues
The sensors in your heat pump system are a key component, as they are relied on to gauge air temperature. If these sensors stop working properly, your system can begin displaying erratic behaviour. It is extremely important that sensors are properly positioned during installation to prevent critical issues. If you’re experiencing issues with them, then get in contact with a professional to enquire about repairs.
Why Getting Your Heat Pump Installed By A Professional Is Important
Many common heat pump problems can be traced back to mistakes during installation. When not installed properly, heat pumps can suffer from inefficiency, frequent breakdowns and expensive repair bills. This is why ensuring that your heat pump is installed by experienced professionals is so important.
At Pipelife, we take immense pride in our expertise and commitment to delivering top-quality heating solutions to homes across the country. With over 25 years of experience in the business, you can count on us to install your heat pump correctly and provide you with a system that transforms the way you heat your home for the better. You can get in contact with us for a quote today to get your house up to date with the latest and greatest home heating solutions.