A heat pump stuck in cooling mode can be a frustrating issue, especially when you need heating during the colder months. In this article, AC troubleshooting system expert Air Products & Services highlights the possible causes for this.
One common reason your heat pump is stuck in cooling mode is incorrect thermostat settings. Ensure that your thermostat is set to the “Heat” mode rather than “Cool” or “Auto.” Also, make sure the temperature setting is above the current room temperature.
A refrigerant leak can affect your heat pump’s ability to switch to heating mode. Low refrigerant levels can cause the unit to remain in cooling mode as it struggles to maintain adequate heating capacity. Calling in an AC repair technician is imperative to determine if the refrigerant is indeed leaking out from the heat pump, or if the problem is caused by something else entirely.
The reversing valve in a heat pump is responsible for switching between cooling and heating modes. If it becomes stuck or is malfunctioning, malfunctions, the unit may remain in cooling mode even when heating is needed. Your local technician can check whether the reversing valve is the culprit and, if so, recommend replacing it.
Outdoor unit problems, such as a malfunctioning defrost control board, can lead to a heat pump being stuck in cooling mode, especially in colder weather. If you think the issue is related to your outdoor unit, get in touch with a local HVAC technician to diagnose and replace any faulty components.
In some cases, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause the heat pump to remain in cooling mode as it fails to communicate the correct commands to the unit. An old, inefficient thermostat may require replacement; if that’s the case, consider going with the programmable type. Make sure it is also compatible with your heat pump system.
Don’t let your heat pump, bafflingly stuck in cooling mode, leave you shivering in the cold. To maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of your heat pump, be sure to schedule regular maintenance to get it in good working order. At Air Products & Services, we can help you diagnose and fix the issue. Whether you need heat pump repair or air conditioning replacement, we’ve got you covered. Call (818) 989-2030, or fill out the form on our contact page to schedule a service appointment.