Your heat pump is an crucial part of your home because it produces year-round comfort. But, like any home comfort system, it’s certain to encounter some problems every now and then.

Let’s review these issues and how much they might cost to repair, so you’ll have some idea before you contact an HVAC technician. Some of the most typical heat pump repair problems include:

  • Heat pump won’t turn on
  • Heat pump won’t turn off
  • Heat pump won’t defrost
  • Heat pump won’t cool
  • Heat pump won’t turn on after changing thermostat
  • Heat pump won’t heat

1. Heat Pump Isn’t Turning On

There are plenty of reasons why your heat pump won’t turn on, so we recommend checking all of them. Sometimes they are as simple as restoring a thermostat setting or replacing your air filter.

Here’s what to check:

  • Is your thermostat on the right setting? If you want air conditioning, make sure it’s set to “cool,” “auto” and that your setting is lower than the ambient temperature. If you want heating, it should be set to “heat,” “auto” and your setting should be higher than the current temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, replace the batteries if the screen appears jumbled or blank.
  • Has the circuit breaker been tripped? Your heat pump won’t be able to operate if it doesn’t have power. Reset the matching breaker if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.
  • Is the air filter dirty? A dirty air filter is troublesome for your heat pump. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to get a new one.

If these steps don’t fix the problem, you’ll need to call a heating and cooling company like PS Cool Heat.

Estimated Repair Cost

This issue can be complex, so how much it costs to fix it will depend on what’s wrong.

2. Heat Pump Won’t Turn Off

If it’s extremely hot or cold outside, your heat pump may need to operate longer than normal to reach your desired temperature.

If the weather is typical, check that your thermostat is set properly and operating normally. If the fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor on your air handler will run 24/7. So, it’ll sound like your heat pump is running all the time. Constantly running the blower can keep humidity levels in check, but it’ll also increase your electrical bills.

If your thermostat is set properly, there are a few other issues that could be causing your heat pump to run all the time. They include:

  • A new thermostat that isn’t appropriate for your heat pump.
  • A malfunctioning compressor contactor, which regulates the flow of electricity.
  • Leaky ductwork.

Estimated Repair Cost

This can be linked to many issues, so your heat pump repair cost will depend on the problem and how complex it is.

3. Heat Pump Isn’t Defrosting

Occasionally during cold weather, your heat pump will temporarily go into cooling mode. This will melt light frost and ice that naturally builds up on the coils. A heat pump that becomes heavily iced over may struggle to heat your home or shut down altogether.

Here are a few reasons why this might be taking place:

  • Your heat pump doesn’t have sufficient airflow because it’s obstructed by snow, bushes or yard waste.
  • Your gutters are dripping water on top of your heat pump, causing an icy buildup.
  • A part is malfunctioning, which may include the reversing valve, relays, controls or sensors.
  • The outdoor fan motor is damaged, dying or dead.
  • Your heat pump has a refrigerant leak. This is likely if you’re hearing bubbling or hissing noises. Or if you discover a sweet, formaldehyde-like odor near the outdoor unit.

Estimated Repair Cost

Like we talked about before, there are a few reasons why your heat pump won’t defrost. But here are a number estimated costs for some of these issues. Keep in mind your cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent of the problem.

  • Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
  • Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
  • Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is pricier since it’s no longer being produced.

4. Heat Pump Can’t Produce Cool Air

Just like a heat pump that won’t turn on, a heat pump that won’t cool can be connected to many troubles. We recommend checking for:

  • Ideal thermostat settings
  • Tripped circuit breakers
  • A dirty air filter
  • Ice on your heat pump

If there’s nothing awry with your thermostat, circuit breakers or air filter, you’ll need assistance from an HVAC technician to diagnose a problem with your ductwork or an iced-over heat pump. Like we discussed earlier, a heat pump that won’t defrost might have an issue with its reversing valve, outdoor fan motor or a refrigerant leak.

Estimated Repair Costs

These repair costs are estimates. Your total charge may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the extent of the issue.

  • Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
  • Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
  • Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump uses. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
  • Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.

5. Heat Pump Isn’t Starting After Upgrading the Thermostat

If your heat pump won’t turn on after changing the thermostat, the problem is probably linked to your new thermostat. While you can install just about any thermostat with a furnace, the same isn’t accurate for heat pumps, especially if you need backup or emergency heating.

You can test your new thermostat by changing the fan mode to “on.” If you don’t hear the blower motor running in your air handler, there’s probably a problem with the thermostat.

A couple other typical thermostat problems include:

  • Wiring was done wrong.
  • Thermostat isn’t communicating with heat pump.
  • Thermostat is in emergency heat mode, which requires a reset.

It’s recommended to have a heating and cooling professional recommend a thermostat and expertly install it. That way, you’ll stay away from any compatibility or wiring issues.

Estimated Repair Costs

The cost of professional thermostat installation depends considerably on what kind of thermostat you want. While programmable thermostats are less expensive, they lack the sophisticated features and convenience of a smart thermostat.

6. Heat Pump Won’t Heat

A heat pump that won’t heat is linked to similar problems with a heat pump that won’t cool. We recommend checking for:

  • Appropriate thermostat settings
  • Tripped circuit breakers
  • A dirty air filter
  • Ice on your heat pump

An icy heat pump or leaky ductwork will require the help of an HVAC technician. Ductwork is tricky to reach since it’s placed behind walls and several issues can cause your heat pump to ice over.

Estimated Repair Costs

These repair costs are estimates. Your total cost may vary based on your heat pump brand, model and the level of the issue.

  • Replace reversing valve: $200–$600
  • Replace outdoor fan motor: $250–$650
  • Repair refrigerant leak: Depends on the type of refrigerant your heat pump runs on. R-22 Freon is more expensive since it’s no longer being manufactured.
  • Seal leaky ductwork: Depends on house size.

Resolve Any Heat Pump Problems Right Away with Help from Local Experts

Dealing with a malfunctioning heat pump can be frustrating, but not when you contact PS Cool Heat. Our professionals have been delivering the quality, affordable heat pump repair Highlands Ranch homeowners have depended on since 2015. Get in touch with us at 720-613-2210 to get your free estimate now.

Average repair costs are sourced from Fixr, which compiles estimates based on nationwide averages.