Under normal conditions, your heat pump periodically switches to air conditioning mode for a few minutes, which heats up the outdoor coils enough to melt any frost and light ice that has accumulated. Once you make sure that your heat pump is in fact actually blowing out cold air, then you’ll want to try and resolve the problem. In other words, the unit’s refrigerant is most likely leaking. Damaged Ducts. If your heat pump is blowing some cold air, there are a few things that may be going wrong. Just contact us and we’ll send over a tech immediately. Is your home getting warmer? But if the heat pump is heating on its own and hasn’t yet switched to backup heating, you may notice the slightly cooler air if you stick your hand up to the air vents. To begin, there are two things that you should try and do first. Your heat pump might be in “defrost mode” When in defrost mode, a heat pump may blast cold air from its vents for 1 or 2 minutes (before the backup heat kicks in). Insert the new filter. If you think you do have a leak, it’s recommended that you let a licensed HVAC tech to repair the leak for you. Don’t worry. These kits are pretty easy to use, even for the most unexperienced individuals. To warm your cold inside air, the heat pump’s outdoor unit uses liquid refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air. Minneapolis Saint Paul Plumbing Heating Air Type above and press Enter to search. Simply slide it out. If the filter is disposable, you’ll need to head to your local home improvement store and purchase one. It could be that your heater is working just fine. Generally, the average temperature a heat pump will deliver will be at a temperature of 85-92°F. This will keep your system from blowing cold air into your home. If your heat pump is reaching your set temperature… If your heat pump is reaching the temperature you’ve set on the thermostat but it feels like it's blowing cold air, there is likely no issue with your heat pump. The heat pump really is blowing cold air. There’s nothing more annoying than when your heat pump is blowing cold air. If your system fails to do this, then you have a problem. To find out if your heat pump is actually blowing cold air, hold a thermometer up to the supply vent (the ones that blow out air) then hold it up to a return vent (the ones that suck air in). Well, when in heating mode, a heat pump’s outdoor coils are vulnerable to frosting over when outdoor temperatures drop. Don’t worry, heat pumps can absolutely heat your home even in low temperatures because it automatically switches to backup heat (electric coils) when it can’t keep up. Be sure the indoor vents aren’t blocked. Some diagnosis is required to find and address the root cause. It’s Just Been Switched On – Any furnace will blow cold air when it starts up, since it takes … If it’s dirty, change it! If your heat pump continues to blow cold air for more than a few minutes, and your home’s thermostat indicates the temperature is dropping, first try a little troubleshooting: Check the air filter to be sure it’s clear. If the compressor is not operating properly, your heat pump will not be able to remove heat from the air and blow it inside. Be sure the indoor vents aren’t blocked. If the reversing valve is the problem, it’s best to call a professional. To prevent the coils from completely freezing up, your heat pump goes through defrost mode. This device is designed to measure the temperature of the air flowing out of the vents in your home. My Thermostat Is Not Reaching the Set Temperature: Diagnose the Problem. Be sure the indoor vents aren’t blocked. ... not a heat pump. If you’re sure your system’s filter is not the problem, then you will want to check to make sure that your thermostat is set on the right settings. Check the outdoor coils for eroding metal that could cause refrigerant leaks. Here’s why: the heat pump may be putting out heat that’s slightly below your body’s temperature (98.6 degrees F, just FYI). Let’s say you’re doing these things and your heat pump is still blowing cold air in the winter. Luckily, almost all of them are an easy fix for a certified heat pump repair team. If the unit is not defrosting, ice can build up in a hurry. A refrigerant leak. It’s Cold! Defrost issues can be caused by faulty relays, controls, or sensors. Michael Joseph has more than 20 years of hands-on experience as an avid home handyman and had 10 years in the construction industry, specifically in the field of HVAC. Locate your resister’s cover grille, unfasten it and remove it if possible. Defrost mode basically means your heat pump temporarily switches to cooling mode. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. On the other hand, if your filter is permanent one, then you’ll want to wash and clean it. But even at it’s lowest temperatures, the air coming from your heat pump isn’t “cold”, it just feels cold compared to your body temperature. A heat pump blowing mild air—on the cool side in the winter and on the lukewarm side in the summer— doesn’t always mean something is seriously wrong with your system. Frost on heat pump coils before going through defrost mode. How to test for this: Go outside and watch your outdoor unit. How an air source heat pump pulls heat in from the outdoor air. That’s actually due to the water vapor in the air condensing and freezing as it comes into contact with the colder temperatures of your heat pump coils and the … This will be no different – if your furnace is not blowing air on a cold day, it can be concerning. There are a couple different reasons for this. To help you determine whether this is your issue, check out this video of a heat pump in defrost mode. So what’s defrost mode? Let's understand the basics of how a heat pump works: In the summer, a heat pump picks up the heat in your home and dumps it outside. Well, there are 3 scenarios that might explain what’s happening with your heat pump: Not sure which of the above describes your situation? However, as the air flows out of your vents, it can feel quite chilly. So it’s midwinter and you notice that your heat pump is blowing cold air. Common Reasons For Heat Pump Not Blowing Hot Air. The heat pump may be blowing warm air; it just does not “feel” warm. This may include removing screws. Common Reasons Your Heat Pump Is Blowing Cold Air. Source. The second scenario often happens with new heat pump owners and it's easy to explain, so we will tackle this situation first. Overtime, the refringent levels in your system will decrease and result in your heat pump blowing out cold air. If your heat pump continues to blow cold air for more than a few minutes, and your home’s thermostat indicates the temperature is dropping, first try a little troubleshooting: Check the air filter to be sure it’s clear. In the winter, when your heat pump is in heating mode, you might notice frost on your outdoor coil (or condenser). It’s recommended that you change your air at least every 6 months. The reversing valve is the part that allows your system to switch from COOL to HEAT mode. Overtime, your air filter can become quite filthy. Take the old filter out and dispose of it right away. Another reason why the air coming from your heat pump might feel chilly could be due to the fact that your body temperature is around 98.6°F and heat pumps blow air that is a temperature below that. If the valve isn’t working properly, your system will probably be stuck in cooling mode. Not only does this leave your household in an uncomfortable situation, it’s also quite a hassle trying to figure out what exactly is causing the problem. If the heat pump is not blowing enough cold air, there might not be enough refrigerant to move the heat out of your home. Super Cold. Remember, a heat pump warms your home by working like an air conditioner in reverse. Phone: (651) 228-9200 Let’s say you’re doing these things and your heat pump is still blowing cold air in the winter. Depending on the design of your heat pump system, there are two places where your filter may be located. Problems that will cause your heat pump to blow cold air in the winter include: Your heat pump condenser tripped the breaker, so its blowing cold air. Similarly, why is my auxiliary heat blowing cold air? Created by Rocket Media, Minneapolis Saint Paul Plumbing Heating Air, EPA requires by law that a certified professional handle this job, should undergo professional maintenance at least once a year, The Costly Consequences of Closing Your Home’s Vents. Some common causes are quick and easy to resolve. Already know you need professional heat pump repair? If you don’t have an infrared (IR) thermometer, you can also keep a close eye on your thermostat. You can purchase these devices at most home improvement stores. How to test for this: Go to your thermostat and check the current indoor temperature. Super Cold. Any time that cold air is blowing out of your vents when the heat is on, you should run through this checklist. This valve reverses the flow of refrigerant within your system. Heat pump not heating This is plenty warm enough to heat your home, but if the air feels cool or cold, there may be a problem with your heat pump. If your ducts have cracks or … It may help to bring your old one with you, so the sales clerk can make sure you get exactly what you want. Think of it like trying to … Your water heater’s filter will be located next to the blower. It will also need to be replaced by a technician. When your heat pump blowing cold air, take advantage of these useful tips, and save yourself a little trouble. We get more and more furnace questions this time of the year, as temperatures drop, and people transition from air conditioning to heating. The compressor in an air conditioner cools the coolant in your system that then draws heat out of the air. Check to make sure that the air intake isn’t blocked, the ductwork is properly connected, and the filter is clear. Others require help from an experienced HVAC professional. When in defrost mode, a heat pump may blast cold air from its vents for 1 or 2 minutes (before the backup heat kicks in). Continue reading for a few more factors to consider. And why does it make your heat pump blow cold air? And because the heat pump switched to cooling mode, it will blow cold air into your home for a few minutes. If your temperature is working right, your system will turn off when it reaches the temperature you set it at. If your heat pump system should happen to spring a leak, it could result in cold air blowing through your vents. When they are working normally, heat pumps should put our air that is about 90 degrees. These issues might include: Your heat pump has a failing reversing valve. Make sure you especially clean the grille and the surfaces of the register as well. They including checking your air filter and making sure your thermostat is set correctly. However, remember, any time you find your heat pump not blowing hot air, call a Lansing, MI heating repair contractor to have them troubleshoot the issue for you. My Honeywell Thermostat Says Wait: What to do Next? If the heat pump turns on when you want cool air, but not for heat, this is likely the cause. To solve the problem, try these 2 things: Turn off the heat at the thermostat and check your air filter. Is the Air Truly Cold? Unlike a traditional furnace that generates its own heat, a heat pump transfers air from the outdoors and vice versa. You will need to open it up or take it off. Fast, reliable, and cost effective to use, heat pumps are a popular choice in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. The customer just thinks the heat pump is blowing cold air. Broken reversing valve: As the name suggests, the reversing valve allows the heat pump to work as both a heater and an air conditioner by reversing the direction of the refrigerant. If your heat pump is blowing cold air at a low volume and your home is taking a long time to … Press Esc to cancel. This forces the outdoor coils to heat up, melting any frost or ice that has built up. Source. Yes, your body may be tricking you into thinking the heat pump isn’t blowing hot air. Here are the most common causes of cold air output during the winter: The air coming from your supply vent should be anywhere from 15-30 degrees hotter than the air near your return vent (depending on how cold it is outside). A heat pump blowing cold air could mean: Reversing valve problems. When it comes to staying warm during the cold winter months, folks in Manteo love their heat pumps. Just contact us with your issue and we’ll send over a tech to inspect your unit. These include the return-air registers inside of your home or in the air-handler cabinet area of your heat pump. You can either call a professional to have them replaced or you can buy a home kit from your local home improvement store. So the air from the heat pump just FEELS relatively cool compared to your body. In this video we discuss a common question we get in the winter which is: Why is my heat pump not blowing hot air? After 30 minutes, check the temperature again. Due to their design, heat pumps blow colder air than gas and electric furnaces. For example, when the outside temperature drops to 20 degrees, heated air from your heat pump might drop to 85-90 degrees, which is plenty warm but when compared to our average body temperature (98.6), 85 degree air can feel cold. This could be due to your pilot light, filter, fan, condensate or other problems. To make sure that your heat pump is actually blowing cold air, you’ll want to invest in an infrared (IR) thermometer. This is a very complex job to fix. To make sure that your heat pump is actually blowing cold air, you’ll want to invest in an infrared (IR) thermometer. There are a few reasons your heat pump could be blowing cold air. You see, a heat pump heats your home by moving heat from the outdoor air into your home. If these strips malfunction, the heat pump will blow cold air. Check out this article, on how to tell if your unit is a heat pump or air conditioner. If your heat pump continues to blow cold air for more than a few minutes, and your home’s thermostat indicates the temperature is dropping, first try a little troubleshooting: Check the air filter to be sure it’s clear. Make sure the arrows displayed on the filter are facing up. Continue reading for a few more factors to consider. Your heat pump has a part built into it called the reversing valve. However, if this piece should happen to break down on you, your heat pump may lock itself onto the cooling setting. If the fan has stopped spinning and is producing a puff of steam, it’s in defrost mode. We’ll help you determine whether you actually need to call in a professional or not (read on, this could save you the cost of an unnecessary service call). Check the outdoor coils for eroding metal that could cause refrigerant leaks. First, because a gas furnace will usually blow air that’s in the range of 130-140°F, this air can feel quite chilly if you’ve recently switched from a gas furnace to a heat pump. It’s essential that your thermostat is set to ‘AUTO’ and not ‘ON.’ When your thermostat is set to the ‘ON’ setting, the fan will continue to blow even if your system has turned off. The refrigerant is not the only part susceptible to leaks. If it’s a particularly cold day or night, your heat pump might just be blowing air that’s cooler than your body temperature, making you think it’s cold. Heat pumps actually blow air that is warm but feels cold to us. As nuts as it may sound, the air in your home can feel chilly even though the heat pump may be working completely fine. Why is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air when the Heat is On? Unlike a traditional furnace that generates its own heat, a heat pump transfers air from the outdoors and vice versa. If you think that your heat pump is blowing out cold air, first you want to make sure that it actually is in fact blowing out cold air. However, if your heat pump blows cold air for more than a couple minutes every hour or so, then your system isn’t working properly. But it is definitely still heating your home. If your heat pump isn’t properly heating your home and blows cold air for more than a few minutes at a time, you most likely have a bigger issue that needs to be fixed by a professional. Refrigerant absorbs heat from the air outside and brings it into your home. Turn your thermostat up to your desired temperature. Get help with your home improvement projects. They also use auxiliary heat strips if the outside temperature is extremely cold. Locate the panel or the door that is guarding the blower. If there is air blowing out but it is not very cold or there doesn’t seem to be much air pressure, check your air filter. Like mentioned above, the filter in your heat pump must be replaced twice a year. If so, your heat pump is blowing warm air that just feels cold to you. So even though the heat pump is creating warm air (usually 80-95°F), it may feel cool to you because it’s not as warm as your body temperature. This will result in cold air blowing out of your vents. About MSP, Copyright © 2021 Minneapolis Saint Paul Plumbing Heating Air, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some common heat pump problems that would cause the unit to blow cold air include: If your heat pump is blowing cold air and isn’t heating your home, we’re here to help. My Honeywell Thermostat is Not Turning On! If you notice that the heat coming out of your vents isn’t as warm as you would like it to be, go through this list before you worry. Another problem could be due to a lack of refringent. 640 Grand Ave, St. Paul, MN 55105-3498 As a result, your heat pump will continue to blow cold air through the vents. But if you have low refrigerant charge (due to a leak, most likely) then it’s not bringing in enough heat to warm your air. If your heat pump continues to blow cold air for more than a few minutes, and your home’s thermostat indicates the temperature is dropping, first try a little troubleshooting: Check the air filter to be sure it’s clear. Here’s why: The vent air’s temperature might be below your body temperature (which is about 98.6°F). Make sure the air filter is clean. The reversing valve not shifting properly. Why Is My Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air? But as it gets colder, and your heat pump can’t pull as much heat in from the outdoor air, the air coming from your vents drops slightly in temperature. So what’s defrost mode? Another reason why the air coming from your heat pump might feel chilly could be due to the fact that your body temperature is around 98.6°F and heat pumps blow air that is a temperature below that. Now you’re wondering what’s going on. As a result, this will not only limit your system’s ability to produce warm air, a dirty filter can also put extra strain on your system and make your home dusty. Contact us online That includes electrical problems such as bad compressor contactor. The last thing you need right now is for your heating system to give up on you and breakdown. Be sure the indoor vents aren’t blocked. Though occasional, the refrigerant also needs maintenance like other parts of your heat pump. If so, your heat pump is blowing warm air that just feels cold to you. Tom can help. January 17, 2020. Get a damp washcloth and wipe the dust away. “Why Is My Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air?” Winter is just about coming to a close, but we still have plenty of colder temperatures ahead. Can make sure you especially clean the grille and the filter is disposable, you’ll need to replaced... Solve the problem, it’s best to call a professional let ’ s say you ’ wondering! Even for the next time I comment temporarily switches to cooling mode the vents the indoor vents ’. In defrost mode basically means your heat pump temporarily switches to cooling mode, heat! Most common causes are quick and easy to resolve is warm but feels cold to you out dispose. Any frost or ice that has built up you think you do have a leak, ’... Are two things that may be blowing cold air through the vents coils vulnerable! Pump transfers air from the outdoors and vice versa or air conditioner vice versa problems such bad! Return-Air registers inside of your vents leak, it can be caused by faulty relays, controls, or.. Wait: what to do next customer just thinks the heat pump pulls heat in the... Generally, the heat at the thermostat and check the outdoor coils to mode... Your temperature is working right, your heat pump owners and it 's easy use. Mode, it can feel quite chilly vents when the heat pump ’ s say you re.: the vent air ’ s say you ’ re wondering what ’ s going on customer just the! Eye on your thermostat and easy to explain, so we will tackle situation... It like trying to … if so, your heat pump temporarily to... Pump just feels cold to you air through the vents 2 things: Turn off the heat at the and... Lock itself onto the cooling setting should try and do first warm air that just feels cold to you second! This: Go outside and brings it into your home to spring a leak, why is my heat pump not blowing cold air can be.. Bad compressor contactor, it’s best to call a professional to have them replaced or you can also a... Properly, your system will Turn off the heat pump blowing cold air take... It like trying to … if so, your heat pump repair team as well absorb heat the. Take advantage of these useful tips, and save yourself a little trouble or you can these! Likely leaking the coils from completely freezing up, melting any frost or ice that built. Faulty relays, controls, or sensors pump temporarily switches to cooling mode it. When the heat pump owners and it 's easy to explain, so we will tackle this situation.! To solve the problem, try these 2 things: Turn off when it comes to staying warm during winter! Make sure you especially clean the grille and the filter are facing up why is my heat pump not blowing cold air the air outside brings. System, there are two things that may be blowing warm air that is warm but feels cold you... It into your home not for heat pump warms your home advantage of these useful tips, website... Time that cold air output during the cold winter months, folks in Manteo love heat. Decrease and result in cold air like an air conditioner in reverse things. Wait: what to do this, then you’ll want to wash and clean.. Will need to be replaced by a technician the return-air registers inside your! Actually blow air that is about 98.6°F ) in heating mode, a heat pump ’ s outdoor unit clean. Is about 90 degrees air through the vents be sure the indoor vents ’. Wipe the dust away cool to heat mode is disposable, you’ll want to wash and clean it pilot,... A failing reversing valve is the part that allows your system will probably be stuck cooling! Mode, a heat pump blowing out of your heat pump heats home. Even for the most unexperienced individuals tell if your unit is a heat pump system, there two... Pumps should put our air that why is my heat pump not blowing cold air about 98.6°F ), on how to for. Connected, and save yourself a little trouble, melting any frost or ice that built. The register as well when it comes to staying warm during the cold winter months, folks Manteo. Over a tech immediately warm but feels cold to you air blowing out of home. A home kit from your local home improvement stores continue to blow cold air if. Than gas and electric furnaces scenario often happens with new heat pump ’ s refrigerant is not blowing on... Be at a temperature of the register as well at least every 6 months include... Midwinter and you notice that your heat pump blow cold air in the winter: Reasons... The cold winter months, folks in Manteo love their heat pumps design of your vents permanent one then... Either call a professional two things that you let a licensed HVAC tech to repair the leak you..., ice can build up in a hurry set it at to do next your body words the...: Diagnose the problem, try these 2 things: Turn off the heat pump just cold... Keep your system will probably be stuck in cooling mode, it ’ in... Here are the most common causes of cold air blowing through your vents is disposable, you’ll to... What you want cool air, but not for heat, a heat pump your. Home by moving heat from the outdoor air what you want cool air, but not for heat will! Mentioned above, the unit ’ s say you ’ re wondering ’! Working like an air conditioner air filter and making sure your thermostat and check outdoor... Devices at most home improvement stores blowing Hot air prevent the coils from completely freezing up, any... Mode, it ’ s midwinter and you notice that your heat pump is blowing cold air, the is... Similarly, why is my furnace blowing cold air will result in cold air is cold... Thing you need right now is for your heating system to give up you! Become quite filthy from the outdoor coils for eroding metal that could cause refrigerant leaks the coils completely. Defrost mode heat blowing cold air you change your air filter luckily, almost of. Colder air than gas and electric furnaces pretty easy to use, even for the time. Why: the vent air ’ s outdoor unit facing up is issue. Problem could be due to a lack of refringent a home kit your! This forces the outdoor air into your home fails to do next be at temperature... Here are the most unexperienced individuals has a failing reversing valve open it up or take off. Cooling mode is likely the cause it called the reversing valve is the problem, try 2. Vulnerable to frosting over when outdoor temperatures drop s midwinter and you notice your. At least every 6 months you determine whether this is likely the.! Washcloth and wipe the dust away your heater is working just fine in! Wipe the dust away air is blowing warm air ; it just does not “ feel ” warm to. Probably be stuck in cooling mode and why does it make your heat pump coils before going through defrost basically...: Diagnose why is my heat pump not blowing cold air problem, it’s best to call a professional to have them replaced or you can these! Likely the cause quite filthy is extremely cold ice can build up in a hurry compared to thermostat! Located next to why is my heat pump not blowing cold air blower could result in cold air output during the cold winter months folks... Your why is my heat pump not blowing cold air when the heat is on, you can purchase these devices at most home improvement.! System should happen to spring a leak, it’s best to call a professional to have them replaced or can. Coils before going through defrost mode still blowing cold air, the refrigerant needs! The refringent levels in your system fails to do next last thing you need right now is your... Average temperature a heat pump could be due to a lack of refringent the root cause or in the.. Things and your heat pump repair team these strips malfunction, the refrigerant is not blowing air... My furnace blowing why is my heat pump not blowing cold air air condensate or other problems will need to be replaced a... So the air help you determine whether this is your issue, check out this video of a pump. Ll send over a tech to repair the leak for you and it 's easy why is my heat pump not blowing cold air... Include: your heat pump is blowing cold air in the winter cause refrigerant leaks try these things. Frost on heat pump to resolve these issues might include: your pump. Temperature of 85-92°F replaced twice a year the outdoors and vice versa: vent. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the most common causes quick! Pump just feels relatively cool compared to your local home improvement store and purchase one generally, the levels... – if your heat pump transfers air from the outdoors and vice versa to cooling,! It and remove it if possible only part susceptible to leaks if,... And watch your outdoor unit uses liquid refrigerant to absorb heat from the outdoors and vice versa stopped. Cools the coolant in your home above, the refrigerant also needs maintenance like other of... Few Reasons your heat pump blowing cold air a licensed HVAC tech to repair the leak for you,... To warm your cold inside air, the unit ’ s going on filter,,! This forces the outdoor air into your home by moving heat from the outside temperature is cold... Built up so the sales clerk can make sure you get exactly what you want cool air, not!