Year-round, your heating and cooling system relies on an efficiently functioning heat pump. Unfortunately, this component is like any other mechanical device in that it will ultimately fail. Consider the following signs that indicate that your pump is starting to experience problems so that you can have the unit repaired before it causes a breakdown of the entire system.

4 Signs That Your Heat Pump is Failing

1. Inconsistently Treated Air

A clear indication that there’s a problem with your heat pump is that the air your system produces isn’t in line with the temperature settings. The system may provide cold air infrequently during a heating cycle, but this should be a random occurrence. If you notice cold air is commonly produced during a heating cycle, the heating elements in the pump are beginning to fail.

2. Inhibited Air Flow 

A lack of airflow can also be a sign that you need pump repair. This will often be more noticeable because the home will feel colder than it should, and the blower isn’t pushing out treated air. If the system never seems to kick on, even though the home feels unusually cold, a faulty pump may be to blame.

3. Icy Coils

Either the interior or exterior can become coated with ice, which is a visual sign that the pump isn’t working. If the pump has been losing refrigerant, the coils won’t be able to generate enough heat to function correctly, and ice will begin to form. You can temporarily resolve this problem by scraping the ice off of the coils. You’ll also need to contact a pump repair technician to fix any damage that has been done to the pump, coils, and other components due to the ice.

4. Strange Sounds and Smells

You can also identify a problem by observing unusual noises as your system functions. Any unusual sound, such as banging, knocking, or screeching noises, could indicate a broken part, or a component that has come loose. Strange smells are common signs of deteriorated insulation in the pump or mold growth in the ducts.

One way to catch developing problems early is to have your heating and cooling system evaluated once or twice a year. A-1 Electric Motor Service is backed by more than 60 years, so they have the expertise to keep your heat pumps and other HVAC motors operating efficiently. They know that your home or commercial business relies on a continuously operating heating system, so they provide 24-hour emergency services to all of their Covington, KY, customers. To learn more about their services, visit their website, and to request service, call (859) 291-1351 today.