Cooling and heating systems are easy to take for granted, until they stop working, that is. Seasonal preventive maintenance is the first solution to ensuring your system stays up running, which feels like pretty much all the time in Yuma. Even with good, regular maintenance, things can happen to interrupt service. Before calling an HVAC specialist, try troubleshooting the heat pump. These are some things you can check on your own with little experience.
- First things first, make sure the thermostat is set to cool and on automatic. If you’re still not getting cool air, tu
rn the fan on by itself and listen to hear if it’s working. - Make sure the heat pump is actually getting power. Inspect the fuse box or breaker box. If the breaker keeps flipping, you might have an electrical issue and/or a problem with the compressor. This would be a point to call an HVAC specialist or electrician.
- Don’t forget about the thermostat batteries, if yours doesn’t run off the compressor’s power or your home’s main electrical system. Fresh batteries can make a difference.
- Check filters, vents and the compressor outside. These need to be clear of dust and debris. You should change your filters monthly if they’re being used a lot and checked before each season. For the compressor, use a low-pressure hose or shop-vac to clear out any old leaves, sticks, grass, and anything else that might be interrupting airflow.
If after troubleshooting the heat pump, you’re still not getting consistent, cool air, it’s time to call the HVAC professionals. They can check your refrigerant levels, inspects your compressor and coil, and identify any wiring issues that require attention. Cooling and heating are a family tradition at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company, which has been owned/operated by three generations. If your heat pump is frosted over, not cooling, or just not working, give us a shout.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat pumps and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
