Why Is My Heat Pump Heating in Cooling Mode in Wellington, FL?

Heat pumps are an excellent heating and cooling option for homes in Wellington, FL. However, they can malfunction in some ways you may not expect. Here are some of the reasons your heat pump might start heating in cooling mode.

Dirty Air Filter

One of the most common reasons for a heat pump to start heating in cooling mode is a dirty air filter. When your air filter becomes too dirty, it’ll obstruct airflow through your heat pump. The result is a sharp drop-off in cold air production and an output of warm air.

Most heat pumps need a new air filter every 90 days for proper operation. If yours is older than that, you should check its condition and replace it if necessary.

Obstructed Outdoor Unit

When your heat pump operates in cooling mode, it expels the heat collected indoors via its outdoor unit. If anything is obstructing your heat pump’s outdoor unit, it can’t function properly. Ideally, there should be at least 2 feet of unobstructed space around your heat pump’s outdoor unit.

Dirty coils in your outdoor unit may also lead to your system outputting heat in cooling mode. If you haven’t had a heat pump maintenance visit recently, you should examine those coils. If necessary, you can gently rinse dirt off them using a garden hose on a low setting.

Malfunctioning Reversing Valve

Heat pumps use the refrigeration cycle to cool your home. However, they also have a reversing valve that lets them operate as a heater. If that valve gets stuck in the heating position, your heat pump will blow hot air in cooling mode.

In many cases, our service technicians can free up a stuck reversing valve with a gentle tap or with a magnet. If not, we can often replace your heat pump’s reversing valve to restore it to working order.

If your heat pump won’t cool your Wellington, FL, home, we can help. Call Lowen Air Conditioning today for a heat pump repair appointment!

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