If you use your heat pump all year, it can wear out quickly. This could be because of a lack of maintenance, heavy use, or bad working conditions. Homeowners can recognize signs like dirty filters, overheating, or weak cooling. Usually, troubleshooting can solve these issues. The following are seven ways to troubleshoot your heat pump and improve performance.

1. Inspect and Replace Your HVAC Air Filter

If a heat pump isn’t working well, check the air filter first. Hold your air filter up to the light. If you can’t see the light through it, air won’t get through either. Replacing a dirty air filter will improve some problems. Replace your air filters if you notice bad smells, high energy bills, poor indoor air, or temperature and humidity problems. These can mean your filters are clogged and need changing to keep your system working well.

2. Correct Your Thermostat’s Settings

Make sure that your thermostat has the correct setting. It should be set to “AUTO” rather than “FAN.” In fan mode, your HVAC system’s blower will blow around room-temperature air. The heat pump won’t turn on for heating or cooling. When the thermostat is set to “AUTO,” the blower fan only engages when your heat pump cycles on. You should also check to see if anyone in your home has raised or lowered the temperature setting.

3. Clear the Area Around the Heat Pump’s Condenser

Remove all obstructions from the perimeter of your heat pump’s condenser unit. On every side, your heat pump’s condenser needs at least two feet of clearance. If nearby shrubs, grass, or trees block the condenser, your heat pump could overheat.

4. Look for Damaged Ducting

Homeowners should regularly inspect their ductwork for signs of damage. Look for visible holes, cracks, or loose fittings in the ducts. Make sure the floor and wall vents are not covered. Look for dust or musty smells. These could mean there are problems.

5. Open Closed Air Vents

Keep all your HVAC air vents open. Don’t close air vents when you no longer want heated or cooled air. Closing vents for a long time can raise the air pressure in ducts. This puts extra stress on heat pumps.

6. Check the Circuit Breaker

Reset your heat pump’s circuit breaker. If a short electrical problem or power surge trips the breaker, reset it. Then, your heat pump should start working again. If the breaker trips again right away, there is a larger electrical problem.

7. Troubleshoot but Don’t Repair

When you fix your HVAC system, you make it work better. You also help it not to get stressed. When it comes to part replacement, you should contact a professional.

When you want the best installation, maintenance, and repairs for heat pumps in Tualatin, OR, contact Sky Heating, AC, Plumbing & Electrical.