Troubleshooting Common Air Source Heat Pump Problems
Like any electronic device, your air source heat pump may eventually break down and stop working. If you notice any problems with the heat pump, then you may be tempted to get on the phone to your local contractor and have someone come down and have a look at the machine. However, before you pick up the phone, there are a number of things that you can do to get the device working again without too much trouble. To save yourself some money, follow the troubleshooting tips below before you put your hand in your wallet.
No Heat
Perhaps the first sign that something is wrong with your air source heat pump is when it stops producing heat. If there is no production at all, then you may have a problem with the electricity supply or with the motor of the pump itself. You will need to test the power supply first, which can be done by replacing the plug, fitting a new fuse, and checking the cable for signs of damage.
You should also press the Reset button on the motor in order to check that a circuit breaker in the pump has not blown. If you suspect a problem with the motor, remove this from the pump, and examine carefully. It may have become clogged with dirt, or it may need to have some grease applied to keep it running smoothly.
If you notice that your heat pump is producing little to almost-no heat, then you should check the amount of refrigerant in your system, and then look at the evaporator. Dirt can clog all parts of your pump, so it is also a good idea to give it a general spring clean, as this can get the pump working without too much effort on your part. Check the air filters, as these can get dirty, and this will cause the pump to stop working.
Lost Pressure
You may experience low pressure in the air source heat pump, which can be again caused by a lack of enough refrigerant, or a dirty air duct. Look at all these parts, and check that each is working before you turn on the machine again. Remove parts and replace if you feel that they are not working properly.
Too high pressure may be another effect of the device. The motor is often affected, but other parts can include the condenser, and the refrigerant again.
Pump Freezes
If your pump is outside, you may find that it becomes frozen during cold weather and produces no heat. This can be a serious problem, as heat pumps are fragile, and the cold can cause them to crack below the layer of ice, and may also damage internal parts, leading to leaks. After a frost, check your pump, and also examine the evaporator and the air blower. If these parts are frosted over even in warm weather, check the compressor, and then replace the parts.
