A heat pump looks like a regular outdoor AC unit, but it can run in reverse. In summer it moves heat out of your house; in winter it pulls heat from the outdoor air and brings it inside. Because it works all year, it also wears all year. AC and Heat LLC repairs, maintains and installs heat pumps for homeowners in Wylie, Royse City, Rockwall, Plano and the surrounding area.
What's normal and what isn't
- Normal: light frost on the outdoor coil in cold weather, and a defrost cycle where the fan stops and you may see steam for a few minutes.
- Not normal: thick ice that covers the unit and never clears.
- Normal: heated air that feels warm rather than hot. Heat pump air is gentler than a gas furnace.
- Not normal: cool air in heat mode, or the system stuck in one mode.
- Not normal: the "aux" or "emergency heat" light staying on all the time, which can mean high electric bills.
Common heat pump repairs
Many heat pump problems come from parts that switch the system between heating and cooling, such as the reversing valve, the defrost control and its sensors. Other usual suspects are capacitors, the outdoor fan motor, refrigerant leaks and thermostats that are not set up for a heat pump. We test before we replace anything.
Tips for heat pump owners
Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, snow and plants. Use the emergency heat setting only when the heat pump itself has failed, because the backup heat strips cost more to run. Since the system works in both seasons, we suggest a tune-up twice a year.
Thinking about switching from a furnace to a heat pump, or replacing an older unit? We can explain the trade-offs and handle the installation. For a single room or addition, a ductless mini-split is also a heat pump.
Call the main office at (972) 442-7300 or call or text (972) 696-9777. We are open 24/7.
More services: AC Repair · Heating & Furnace Repair · AC & Heating Maintenance / Tune-Ups · AC & Furnace Installation & Replacement · Ductless Mini-Splits · Indoor Air Quality & Filters · Service areas · Home
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