When the chill of autumn creeps into Langley and the Lower Mainland, your heat pump becomes the unsung hero of home comfort. But what happens when it stops heating just as you need it most? Panic sets in, sweaters pile on, and you might even start eyeing that old space heater in the garage.
Don’t worry, most heat pump issues come down to a handful of common culprits that can be checked (and sometimes fixed) before you call for backup. In this guide, we’ll break down the Top 7 reasons your heat pump isn’t heating, and what you can do about each one.
1. 🚨 Thermostat Troubles : Is It Really Set Right?
It sounds basic, but the humble thermostat is often the culprit behind a heat pump not working. Many times, homeowners in Langley discover after a flurry of panic (and an extra sweater or two) that the settings just weren’t where they thought. Before calling in the cavalry, double check:
- Is it set to “heat” and not “cool” or “fan”?
- Do the batteries still have some life left in them?
- Is the temperature set above the current room temperature?
- Has a schedule override switched things up?
Modern thermostats are smart, but sometimes too clever for their own good. Give yours a quick reset, and see if that brings the heat back. If you have a programmable or Wi-Fi connected model, it might be worth checking the app for system errors or updates as well.
2.💡 Power Problems : Did It Actually Lose Power?
A surprising number of heating issues stem from a plain old power problem. Before diving into more complicated heat pump troubleshooting, check these basics around your home:
- Make sure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped
- Confirm the disconnect switch near the outdoor unit is ON
- Inspect for blown fuses
- Ensure no power outages are affecting your neighbourhood
Losing power is sometimes a simple fix, but if your breaker keeps snapping off, it could be a sign of a deeper HVAC repair issue. That’s especially true during those wild winter storms we see here in Langley. Don’t keep flipping that switch, let a professional check for electrical faults.
3. ❄️ Icy Outdoor Unit – Frozen Heat Pump Alert!
Heat pumps work hard, even in chilly West Coast weather. But when temperatures drop or humidity is high, your outdoor unit can freeze up – literally. If you spot a layer of ice or frost, don’t panic just yet.
Some possible causes for freezing include:
- Restricted airflow from blocked vents or debris
- Malfunctioning defrost control board
- Dirty coils needing a clean
- Low refrigerant levels
Try gently clearing snow and leaves from around the unit and see if the system initiates a defrost cycle. If the whole unit looks like a popsicle or defrost cycles don’t kick in, it’s time to pause your DIY and reach out for professional HVAC repair.
4. 🦸 Dirty Air Filters – The #1 DIY Fix
This one is so common that even experienced homeowners forget. Dirty or clogged air filters can choke your heat pump’s airflow, making your system work overtime or not at all. The silver lining? It’s an easy fix.
Swap your air filter if:
– It’s been more than 1-3 months since the last change
– There’s visible dust buildup or pet hair
– You notice musty smells or increased allergies indoors
Fresh filters help your heat pump and wallet. Plus, it’s satisfying to see all that gunk you’re keeping out of your home’s air. Keep this quick task high on your seasonal to-do list for smooth operation.
5. 💨 Ductwork Dilemmas – Is Your Warmth Getting Lost?
Sometimes the issue isn’t your heat pump, but the journey warm air takes to reach your rooms. Old or damaged ductwork can invite all sorts of mischief – from leaky connections to sagging sections that trap air.
Key ductwork red flags:
– Certain rooms feel noticeably colder
– Whistling, rattling, or banging noises from the vents
– Dust build-up around registers or unexpected spikes in energy bills
If your home’s ductwork is hiding in crawlspaces, it might be tough to inspect on your own. Still, visible ducts should be free of gaps and debris. Any sign of trouble might mean a pro is needed to keep your system running at its best.
6. 🧰 Refrigerant Leaks – When Heating Just Feels “Off”
A heat pump without enough refrigerant works just like a car without oil – not well and at risk of serious damage. Refrigerant should never vanish over time, so if heat seems weak, inconsistent, or you hear hissing from your system, a leak could be the culprit.
Refrigerant issues are best left to certified HVAC repair specialists, mainly because handling these chemicals requires proper safety gear and licenses. Signs you might need help include:
– Ice forming on the indoor or outdoor coils
– A bubbling or hissing sound near the unit
– Low airflow and lukewarm air from vents
Addressing leaks quickly helps you avoid expensive repairs and keeps your heat pump running longer.
7. ⚙️ Mechanical Malfunctions – Knowing When to Call for Backup
Heat pumps are tough but not invincible. Over time, mechanical parts can wear out. Motors, relays, control boards, or reversing valves might eventually decide they’ve had enough. If all the basics have been checked and your heating still isn’t working, it’s time for deeper troubleshooting.
Tell-tale signs of a bigger mechanical problem:
– System shuts off randomly or struggles to turn on
– You hear grinding, buzzing, or clicking from the unit
– No noticeable airflow or temperature change after cycling
Mechanical failures are not a DIY zone. Fixes often require expert know-how and specific parts, so save yourself the headache and connect with a trusted local pro.
When to Call in the Pros at Veteran Heating and Cooling 📞
Tackling basic heat pump troubleshooting is rewarding and can save you time and money. However, there are times when even the handiest homeowners in Langley need an expert in their corner. Persistent problems, mysterious noises, or recurring power issues mean it’s time to call Veteran Heating and Cooling.
Our committed team offers prompt HVAC repair across Langley and the Lower Mainland, so you never have to shiver while waiting for help. Whether your heat pump isn’t working or just refuses to behave, we’re here to restore comfort and peace of mind. Give Veteran Heating and Cooling a ring at 604-991-4894 or send us a message below and let us handle the tricky repairs, so you can get back to enjoying cozy evenings at home.
