Troubleshooting Common Heat Pump Problems

No Heat
Most heating system failures are caused by thermostat malfunctions, a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse, or – in the case of combustion furnaces – a pilot light has gone out. If the heat doesn't come on even when you adjust the thermostat to a setting above room temperature:

1. Be sure the thermostat is set to "Heat" (if yours is a heating and cooling system). If it isn't, turn it to "Heat."
2. Be sure the furnace's circuit breaker is on or that its fuse has not blown. Check both the main electrical panel and any secondary sub-panels that supply power to the unit. If the circuit has blown or tripped, reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse. If the circuit blows again, there is a probably a short in the electrical system providing power to the furnace.
3. Be sure the heat pump's power switch is turned on; it is usually located next to or inside the furnace cabinet. If it isn't on, turn it on and wait a few minutes for the air handler to engage.
4. The motor may need to be reset because of an overload. Look for a RESET button near the blower motor's housing and, if you find one, press it. If nothing happens, wait about 30 minutes for the motor to cool, then try the RESET button again.
5. Turn off the power to the heat pump at the main electrical panel or sub-panel. Look for a fuse in the power switch. If there is one there, it may have blown. Replace the fuse (be sure to follow instructions in your owner's manual). If you don't have an owners's manual or are not clear about what it will take to do this, call a heating repair technician.
6. Check the heat pump's ignition, according to the owner's manual.
7. If it still doesn't work, be sure the thermostat isn't faulty (see below).
8. If none of this works, call a heating contractor or heat pump repair technician.

Insufficient Heat
If your heat pump runs and provides some heat but not enough, be sure nothing is blocking the flow of warm air.

1. First be sure the thermostat is set properly. Try raising the set temperature 5 degrees and waiting a few minutes.
2. Be sure the room heating registers are open.
3. Check the heat pump filter. If it's dirty, change it .
4. If these simple steps don't work, have a heat pump repair technician check out your system--either the blower isn't working properly or the system is out of balance.

If you need your heat pump serviced, complete and submit the service request form or call Tri-County Aire to request a service call.