You turn to your heat pump for year-round comfort in Porterville, CA. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, which circulates the chemical refrigerant through the coils and facilitates the exchange of heat. Read on for ways to tell if your this part of your heat pump is functioning properly or not.
Know the Signs of a Properly Functioning Compressor
When this essential part of your heat pump is working properly, you’ll enjoy optimal indoor comfort. The temperature and humidity levels in your home will be consistent. The heat pump will cycle normally, and it will do so quietly. Then, the system will rest for a while between cooling or heating cycles.
Recognize the Signs of Compressor Problems
If there’s a problem with this part of your heat pump, you could notice a variety of different issues. The unit may fail to turn on, leaving your home too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter. You may hear the heat pump turn on, but its motor may not start. This is often accompanied by unusual sounds. It may squeal, screech, or make other loud sounds during a heating or cooling cycle. The heat pump may shut down only to turn on again seconds later. A bad compressor may cause the heat pump’s circuit breaker to trip. Your electricity bills may soar if problems with this critical component aren’t addressed quickly. These increased utility costs are due to frequent cycling and increased electrical demand during the failed start-up phase.
Know the Causes of Compressor Problems
Dirty coils are a leading cause of compression failure. A blocked suction line could halt the flow of refrigerant and cause the part’s motor to overheat. A refrigerant leak or too much refrigerant may also cause the part to malfunction. Damaged wiring, fuses, or contactors are more possible causes of compressor problems.
To learn more about heat pump compressors, take a look at ZONE Air & Heating Inc.’s heating and cooling services, or call our heat pump experts today for more info.