Heat Pumps Service Checklist in Tustin
If your heat pump is your main heating and cooling system, it’s advisable to schedule professional maintenance before each fall and spring season starts. One of our qualified technicians will inspect every component, including the air handler, condenser unit, blower, duct connections, and evaporator coil, checking for dirt, obstructions, or damage. They will also flush and clean the drain line and measure and verify the refrigerant charge. In addition, our technicians will inspect the electrical wiring, replace any damaged wires, and clean and tighten connections. We will complete our maintenance by testing to ensure warm air flows when the heat is on, and cool air flows when set to cool.
Between the maintenance calls, you can check to see if your air filters are clean at least once a month and change them when needed. Also, ensure the outdoor unit is free from foliage and debris. Shrubs or any other item should be at least 18 inches away from it on all sides.
However, even well-maintained heat pumps will need repairs eventually. When that time comes, our team is the one to call.
In case of the following signs, call for professional heat pump repair:
- Unusual sounds and smells
- The unit won’t turn on
- Leaks
- Inconsistent heating or cooling
You should expect normal heat pump noises. For instance, most heat pumps sound like an unbalanced washing machine during startup or shutdown. The compressor causes this noise and should stop after a few minutes.
However, whistling, rattling, loud shrieking, vibrations, and repeated gurgling noises are not typical. Loose components, refrigerant leaks, or motor problems could cause them. Be sure to turn off your system and wait for the professional to arrive. Odors to watch out for include burning plastic, stale, rotten fish, and rotten egg smell. Burning smells mean your system is overheating, or you have an electrical issue.
The rotten egg smell may be due to a dead animal in your ducts or near the heat pump. Stale odor is often a result of moisture accumulation and mold growth in the system. If you are having trouble turning on your heat pump, you could have a malfunctioning thermostat or a tripped circuit breaker. Water leaks result from a clogged drain line or frozen evaporator coils that have thawed and overflowed. If you continue to have these problems, you should consider a replacement.
Frequent breakdowns mean your system can no longer efficiently handle your home’s heating and cooling needs. Investing in a new, highly efficient heat pump can improve comfort, health, and safety and reduce energy costs. We will get the job done quickly for minimal downtime, making sure your new heat pump works perfectly before we leave.