The compressor is an essential part of your heat pump, which means that you should treat every sign of failure with the utmost seriousness. To handle these problems, though, you must first learn to recognize them. Here are three significant signs of a faulty heat pump compressor that all residents of McMurray, PA should know.
1. Poor Performance
The refrigerant in a heat pump transfers heat into and out of a building. The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant so that it becomes very hot.
In the winter, hot refrigerant releases its heat into a cooler room. In the summer, the refrigerant absorbs heat from a room and flows to the outside unit, where the compressor makes it very hot again, allowing the heat to transfer to the cooler outside air.
This quick description of what goes on inside a heat pump should show you that the system won’t be able to cool or heat without a working compressor. Hence, poor performance, even to the point of completely refusing to turn on, should make you wonder about the state of your compressor. It would be a good idea to schedule a maintenance appointment to ensure that this is the source of the problem.
2. Blowing Cold Air While in Heating Mode
If your heat pump’s compressor breaks down, the system may fail to regulate and distribute refrigerant properly. This may lead to an inability to switch from cooling mode to heating mode or vice versa at the appropriate time.
3. Odd Noises
Keep your ears open for any unusual sounds from your compressor. A slight hum is completely normal, but loud screeching, rumbling, rattling and clicking are not.
You will need professional intervention to fix any issues with your heat pump’s compressor reliably. Don’t hesitate to act when you notice signs like the ones above. Call Bruno Plumbing & Heating and take advantage of the best heat pump services in the McMurray, PA area.
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