The heat pump in your Hanover, PA home works year-round to provide indoor comfort. In the summertime, it functions as an air conditioner. Its reversing valve allows it to heat your home during the winter season, notes the University of California at Davis. A problem with the reversing valve will make itself known in a few ways, and all of these situations require prompt HVAC repairs.
Frozen Coil
During the summertime, your heat pump’s reversing valve will occasionally kick on. It does this in order to thaw the coil. This cycle only takes place a couple of times per day even on the hottest day of the year. If the reversing valve gets stuck, the coil may freeze. You might notice frost or ice buildup on the heat pump. As the ice melts, a puddle or pool of water will form near the unit.
Diminished Heating or Cooling Capacity
Reversing valves can get stuck in heating mode, cooling mode, or between modes. If it’s stuck in heating, your heat pump won’t be able to run a cooling cycle. When the reversing valve is stuck in cooling mode, it won’t be able to heat. If it’s stuck in the middle, the heat pump won’t be able to heat or cool your home. Its motor could burn itself out from trying to reach the temperature setting on your thermostat. If your heat pump turns on and doesn’t turn off, a stuck valve could be the issue.
Refrigerant Leak
A leaky valve could cause a refrigerant leak in your heat pump. Once the refrigerant has leaked out of the unit, the valve must be replaced. If your heat pump was manufactured before 2010, you may have to replace the entire system because replacement refrigerant for old equipment is no longer manufactured in or imported to the United States.
For more information about when to replace a heat pump reversing valve, take a look at Siegman Forced Air Systems, Inc.’s prompt HVAC repairs, or reach out to us any time.