Heat pumps are an efficient and convenient alternative to conventional heating appliances. But just like any other machine, they can also fail or stop working properly. When you encounter an issue, such as a heat pump that keeps shutting off, there are troubleshooting steps you can safely try first before calling a professional.
Therefore, it helps to be aware of the possible reasons why your heat pump keeps ‘short-cycling’ or shutting off too soon. This doesn’t just negatively impact your comfort, but also your heat pump’s lifespan and your budget. If your unit is short-cycling, it wears down quicker, drains extra power, and will require frequent repairs.
4 Reasons Why Your Heat Pump Keeps Shutting Off
- There’s a problem with the thermostat
Thermostat issues are often the reason why your heat pump turns on and off too soon. Your thermostat detects the temperature in your home and turns the heat pump on and off accordingly.
Inaccurate thermostat measurements may result in short cycling. Fortunately, this can be fixed by adjusting the thermostat’s heat anticipator.
It’s also possible that the thermostat was installed in a poor location, where sunlight or drafts and other sources of air may be affecting it.
- The air filter is clogged
A clogged or dirty air filter may restrict airflow and force the heat pump to work harder than it should. The heat pump may overheat because of this, and short-cycle itself.
To avoid this, check and replace the air filter at least once a month, or every two to three months in milder seasons.
- The heat pump is incorrectly sized
If the heat pump is incorrectly sized prior to installation, it may result in short cycling.
Just like furnaces and air conditioners, heat pumps need to be sized by a professional, according to the space it will heat and cool. Inexperienced installers may have installed a unit that’s too big for your home, so the heat pump quickly reaches the target temperature and shuts off before the heating cycle is finished.
- There’s a refrigerant leak
With a low refrigerant charge, the heat pump works much harder to do its job, which is to carry heat into (or out of) your home, operating less efficiently in the process. Since it’s running longer and harder, the system may overheat, resulting in short cycling.
Heat Pump Repair Near Me: Reliable Heat Pump Repair
During the winter months, uninterrupted heating helps protect your comfort, health, and well-being. So if you’re dealing with a heat pump that keeps shutting off, you want the issue addressed as quickly as possible, so you resume living your life.
That’s how a Good Guy can help. Our knowledgeable, experienced technicians quickly and accurately diagnose heat pump issues, then complete the necessary repairs with as little downtime as possible.
Aside from repairs and emergency service, we also offer custom HVAC solutions with your unique needs and budget in mind.
Schedule installs, maintenance, and repairs through our exclusive Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.
