Why is My Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air?

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Are you cranking up the thermostat, but you feel a cool breeze coming from your vents?

Before picking up the phone and calling a professional, read on below to find out what may be causing the issue.

Your heat pump may not be blowing cold air

If the temperature outside is very cold, your heat pump may be blowing air that is below your body temperature.

A heat pump moves air from the outside to heat your home. As the temperature drops, your heat pump cannot pull as much heat from outdoor air, which causes the air coming from your vents to drop in temperature.

In low temperatures, heat pumps automatically switch to backup heat (electric coils) so it can heat up your home when it can’t keep up.

How a heat pump works
How a heat pump works

Source

To make sure your heat pump is heating your home, do this: Check the current temperature on your thermostat. After 30 minutes, check it again.  Is the temperature rising? Does it get to your set temperature and shut off the heat pump? If so, it is working properly.

Your heat pump is in “defrost mode”

When it is very cold outside, a heat pump’s coils are vulnerable to frosting over. To prevent this, your heat pump goes through a defrost mode.

During defrost mode, you might notice a few minutes of cold air coming out of your vents before the heat pump begins heating again.

How to check if your heat pump is in defrost mode: Go outside and watch your outside unit. If it is producing steam, it is in defrost mode.

When to call in the professionals

If your heat pump is still blowing cold air and not properly heating your home, you should call in a professional.

Some common heat pump problems we encounter include:

  • Refrigerant Leaks
  • Frozen Outdoor Unit
  • Loss of Efficiency

The number one way to catch potential problems before your heat pump needs repair is preventative maintenance. Some of the other benefits of regular maintenance are lower energy bills, longer equipment life, and safer equipment operation.

Whether you need service on your heat pump or want to schedule maintenance, we have you covered! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.