How to repair a heat pump that is constantly running?

Heat pumps are designed to provide both heating and cooling to your home or building, and they typically have an automatic switch that controls whether the unit runs in heating or cooling mode. However, if you find that your heat pump is running constantly, it may indicate a problem with the unit that requires repair.

There are several possible reasons why a heat pump may run constantly. These include:

1. Dirty air filter: A dirty air filter can cause your heat pump to work harder than it needs to, which can lead to overheating and constant running. Make sure to regularly check and replace your air filter to avoid this issue.
2. Low refrigerant levels: If your heat pump is low on refrigerant, it can cause the unit to work harder and run constantly. This is a problem that should be addressed by a licensed HVAC technician, who can check the refrigerant levels and make any necessary repairs.
3. Faulty thermostat: If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it may cause the heat pump to run constantly. This can often be resolved by replacing the thermostat or having it repaired.
4. Stuck reversing valve: The reversing valve is responsible for changing the direction of refrigerant flow, which is necessary for the heat pump to switch between heating and cooling mode. If the valve gets stuck, the unit may get stuck in one mode and run constantly. This is another problem that should be addressed by a licensed HVAC technician.
5. Faulty relay switch: A relay switch is responsible for turning the heat pump on and off, and if it’s malfunctioning, the unit may run constantly. This can often be resolved by replacing the switch.

If your heat pump is constantly running, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid causing damage to the unit or increasing your energy bills. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and repair the problem:

1. Check the air filter: As mentioned, a dirty air filter can cause your heat pump to run constantly. Check the filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
2. Check the thermostat: Make sure that the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and mode (heating or cooling). If the thermostat is malfunctioning, consider having it repaired or replaced.
3. Check the reversing valve: To check the reversing valve, turn off the power to the unit and remove the cover on the outdoor unit. Look for the valve, which should be labeled with an “H” for heating and a “C” for cooling. Use a multimeter to test the valve’s voltage and resistance, or contact a licensed HVAC technician to do this for you.
4. Check the relay switch: To check the relay switch, turn off the power to the unit and remove the cover on the indoor unit. Look for the switch, which should be connected to the thermostat wires. Test the switch using a multimeter, or contact a licensed HVAC technician to do this for you.

If you’re unable to identify and repair the problem on your own, it’s important to contact a licensed and experienced HVAC technician for assistance. They can diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs or replacements to get your heat pump running properly again. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent this issue from occurring in the future.