Heat pumps in Texas are an essential component of the HVAC system. It is a refrigeration system that functions to either cool or heat an indoor space. A heat pump transfers the heat constantly and circulates warm air throughout the home.

When it is cold outside, the pump extracts heat from the outside and moves it inside. Likewise, when it is hot outside, the pump works in the opposite direction and works like an air conditioner, which means it will expel heat from your home.

There are two main components in the heat pump, which is an outdoor unit similar to the AC and an indoor air handler. The outdoor unit of the HVAC system has a compressor, which circulates the refrigerant to absorb and release heat while traveling between the outdoor and indoor units.

How Does Heat Pump Work In Air Conditioning Mode?

It is essential to install the heat pump carefully so that it can function properly. The heat pump maintains cool and comfortable temperatures as well as reduce the level of humidity inside the home. A motorized fan pulls warm air from the indoor space into the ductwork.

A compressor then circulates the refrigerant between the outdoor condensing and indoor evaporator units. The warm air travels to the air handler—the refrigerant from the outside condenser coil to the inside evaporator coil. Likewise, the refrigerant absorbs the warm air or heat while passing over the indoor air.

How Does The Pump Work In Heat Mode?

People use heat pumps in Texas because it is a region that experiences milder winters. However, the heat pump technology has enabled the HVAC system to be used in Texas, which has an extended period of subfreezing temperatures.

So, when in heat mode, it will switch from the AC mode to heat mode by running the refrigeration cycle in the reserve direction. It means the indoor unit works as the condenser and the outdoor coil as the evaporator.

The refrigerant will flow through refrigeration lines between the indoor and outdoor units. Although the temperature outside is cold, it absorbs enough heat from the outside air and transfers it inside.

The motorized fan pulls air from the indoor space into the ductwork and then it pumps the refrigerant from the interior coil to the exterior coils. Here, it absorbs heat energy from the air. Next, it pushes the warm air through connecting ducts to air vents in your home to increase the temperature.

Heat Pumps Troubleshooting

If your heat pump is not providing enough cooling in the summer or heating in the winter, it means the component has problems. Some of the most common issues associated with the heat pump are:

No Defrosting

Normally, the heat pump switches periodically to air conditioning mode for a couple of minutes. It heats the coils located outside to melt any frost or ice. If the system is not defrosting, it may build up the ice fast.

The problem is due to faulty sensors, controls, and relays. The issue may also occur due to problems with the reverse valve, which switches the heat pump from heat to air conditioning mode.

When it comes to heat pump troubleshooting, the HVAC Heroes have qualified and experienced technicians who will ensure maintaining the heat pump’s outdoor coil. Primarily, it is done by cleaning it thoroughly, particularly during the cold winter months. We ensure keeping away leaves and branches from the device.

Low Refrigerant and Outdoor Fan Issues

If the heat pump system is leaking refrigerant, it will cause the problem of slow charging, which means the system won’t produce enough heat. As a result, it may not melt the frost properly.

In such a situation, you may also face the problem with the unit in terms of achieving set temperatures. Our trained technician will fix the leak, test the repair, and ensure charging the HVAC system with the correct amount of refrigerant.

Moreover, the fan motor fails to function properly when it undergoes damages. It will impede the releasing of the heat from the unit and lead to the accumulation of ice. Our technician will look for any electrical connection shortages or other problems and fix the system accordingly.

Blocked Outdoor Unit

Sometimes, the snow accumulates around the outdoor unit, which causes more icing due to the impeded airflow. Water leaking onto the unit is another problem, which occurs when the water constantly drips on the unit due to leakages.

As a result, it will form a layer of ice on the top. So, when it comes to heat pumps in Texas, you need qualified repair and maintenance services like the HVAC Heroes to maintain your HVAC system professionally.