HVAC
Problems with heat pumps can leave Inland Empire homeowners scratching their heads in wonder. When your heat pump continues to run after reaching the set temp, what’s the matter? Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating explains what causes this heat pump issue and what to do about it.
Reasons Why Your Heat Pump Continues to Run After Reaching the Set Temp
There could be one of multiple issues causing this problem. Below, we review the common causes of a continuously running heat pump and how to fix the issue.
1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
If your heat pump continues to run after reaching the set temp, the first place to look is the filter cabinet. Is your air filter dirty and completely clogged with contaminants pulled from the air? If so, this dirty filter is likely causing your heat pump to run continuously.
Fix this problem by disposing of the dirty filter and installing a new filter of the same dimensions. Make sure to insert the filter in the correct direction or else it will impede airflow just like the dirty filter does.
2. Thermostat Setting Mistake
If your heat pump continues to run and the filter isn’t to blame, it’s time to look at the thermostat. Are your settings correct? If the system’s fan is turned to ON, it will run all the time – not just as the heat pump cycles. Oftentimes, a fan is responsible for making homeowners think it sounds like the heat pump system or other HVAC system equipment is still on when it shouldn’t be.
If your fan is ON, simply adjust the thermostat so that the fan is reset to AUTO. This way, it will only run when the heat pump does and it won’t sound like your heat pump is on all the time.
3. Duct Leaks
If your duct system is losing a great deal of heat, your heat pump is going to have to work harder to maintain the temperature you’ve set on your thermostat. This could be why your heat pump continues to run after reaching set temp – the system simply hasn’t heated the space to the point the temperature can be maintained if the heat pump shuts down.
You can check your ducts for obvious gaps and disconnections, but most duct leaks are hard to reach and hard to identify on your own. Call Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating and request duct sealing services to close air leaks and help your ducts and your heat pump run more efficiently.
4. Low Refrigerant
If the heating system has a refrigerant leak and lacks coolant, this may be why your heat pump continues to run after reaching the set temp. The system is struggling to maintain temperatures due to the lack of refrigerant. Refrigerant leaks and system recharging must be handled by a licensed professional, so schedule heat pump repair service if you suspect this problem.
Heat Pump Repair Service in San Bernardino
If your heat pump continues to run after reaching the set temperature or experiences other performance issues, don’t wait to schedule repairs. Call Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule service and have one of our licensed technicians solve the problem.