Common problems with heat pumps include low airflow, leaky or noisy ducts, temperature problems, using the wrong refrigerant charge, rattles, squeaks and grinding noises. If you can, try to isolate the location of the problem. Is the airflow only low coming out of one register, or do all registers have low airflow? Is the offending noise coming from the air ducts or within the heat pump unit itself?

There are a few things you can do to identify and possibly fix a heat pump problem before calling for professional help. First, if the unit isn’t working, try resetting the motor on the unit. Check the pump ignition system for problems, and make sure you don’t have a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. Check the thermostat to make sure it is working properly. Change the filter if it’s dirty, and make sure there are no airflow blockages. If the air ducts are making noise when they expand and contract, you could try putting a dent in the side of the duct to make the surface more rigid. Rattles may be fixed by fastening loose parts, and if you’re hearing squeaks inside the unit, you may need to replace or adjust the fan belt connecting the motor and the fan. A grinding noise may indicate that the bearings on the motor are worn out, which will require the help of a professional to fix.

Because heat pumps can contain hazardous materials, don’t try to fix a major problem with your heat pump without professional assistance, as you may cause a chemical leak or injure yourself handling a broken device.

A heat pump should last between 10 and 30 years.  Keep in mind that technology may change before your heat pump has worn out. New technologies may make heat pumps safer or more efficient, so you may wish to keep an eye out for new kinds of heat pumps.

For more information:

How heat pumps work

Pros and cons of heat pumps

Article by: Cowan, Laura.  “How Heat Pumps Work”  13 May 2009.  HowStuffWorks.com. 18 May 2011.