Why Does My Heat Pump Run Constantly?

If you’re noticing your heat pump is running all the time, it may be a sign that something is wrong. At BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning, we can help you spot the problem and fix it before it runs up your utility bills.

Located in Monaca, PA, our HVAC company also services the areas around Aliquippa, Dormont, Economy, Moon, and Beaver Falls.

Is Your Heat Pump Running Correctly?

It’s normal for your heat pump to run fairly constantly in the winter time. With low temperatures, your pump will be working nonstop for hours to ensure your home stays warm.

But if your heat pump is working overtime in the spring or summer when temperatures are milder, you may have an issue! Some signs that you may need a repair include:

• Ice on the coils
• Unit is stuck on one of its modes
• Reduced airflow
• Inability to maintain a comfortable temperature

Notice these problems along with your heat pump running continuously?

Call ​us or contact us online to schedule service.

5 Reasons Your Heat Pump Is Running Constantly

Have you had enough of high energy bills and poor heating and cooling in your home? These are some reasons your heat pump may be running constantly and what you can do.

1. Your Thermostat Isn’t Set Appropriately

Setting a thermostat too high in the winter or too low in the summer may cause it to run constantly as it tries to keep up with the temperature you set it for.

Make sure the emergency heat mode is not set either. Setting the thermostat incorrectly or realizing someone bumped it to an incorrect setting could cause your problem.

2. Your Air Filter Needs To Be Cleaned

For a heat pump to run efficiently, it needs a supply of fresh, clean air. If the filter becomes clogged, the heat pump will have to run continuously to keep your home comfortable.

Replacing or cleaning the filter can fix this problem. This service is part of your normal maintenance check, so you should have fewer problems if you keep up with your necessary maintenance.

3. Your Condensate Pump Isn’t Working

If the condensate pump isn’t working or has become unplugged, the pump won’t work as it should. This could cause a variety of problems, including a pump that runs continuously. Check the condensate pump to see if it’s functioning properly.

4. Your Home Allows Too Much Outside Air In

For your heat pump to work effectively, you should be closing as many entry points as possible — doors, windows, and any other entrances for outside air. Outside air will affect how quickly your pump can work to heat or cool your home.

If you allow cold outside air in during winter, for example, this will drop the temperature inside of your home. Meanwhile, your pump will work overtime to make up for the loss of heated air.

5. Your Evaporator Coils Are Dirty

Evaporator coils are an essential part of your heat pump. These coils work to absorb heat. The heat it absorbs is then released into or outside of your home, depending on the season.

Troubleshooting Your Heat Pump

If you’re stressing because your heat pump runs constantly, take a breath. Use this quick heat pump troubleshooting guide to review the most common causes of a heat pump running all the time:

1. Inspect thermostat controls: Before you do anything else, go to your thermostat to ensure all settings are correct. Check that the system is set to “heat” or “cool” accordingly, that the fan isn’t set to “on,” and that your temperature settings are correct.
2. Check the outdoor unit: When a heat pump runs constantly, it’s often linked to a failure of the defrost cycle. The heat pump defrosts to rid the condenser of ice, and a heat pump does this in summer and winter. If your outdoor unit is encased in ice and frost, the defrost has failed. Call for service.
3. Look at the evaporator coil: The evaporator coil for your heat pump is either in the blower compartment (where you change your air filter) or attached to the furnace. If the coils are dirty, grimy, or corroded, they may be leaking refrigerant or otherwise negatively impacting the heat pump’s operation. This causes it to lose efficiency, resulting in the unit running constantly to make up for the loss in power.

The Difference Between Heat Pumps, Central Systems & Furnaces

While it’s important to note that you should never ignore a heat pump that’s running all the time, it’s also worth noting that heat pumps run more than central systems and furnaces.

While other HVAC equipment provides comfort by essentially blasting your home with temperature-controlled air, a heat pump instead aims to consistently maintain comfortable temperatures more steadily. This means they run for longer periods, especially in winter.

Understanding Heat Pump Performance in Winter

While a heat pump that runs continuously can be a sign of a problem, sometimes it means it’s working as it should. When temperatures dip below 40 degrees, the heat pump is designed to run almost constantly to keep your home comfortable.

So, if the weather outside is particularly cold and your system is running constantly, don’t worry. It may mean it’s working as it’s supposed to.

Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance in Monaca, PA

In addition to knowing the signs of problems, one way to ensure your heat pump is functioning well all year is to schedule proper routine maintenance. A maintenance check in spring and fall will ensure your heat pump is ready to deliver reliable service all year.

If it’s time for your maintenance appointment, call our qualified technicians to discuss your needs. With our help, you can be confident your heat pump will keep your family comfortable.

Call BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning today or contact us online to schedule heat pump services.