If your heat pump isn’t doing its job during a Gilroy summer, it can get uncomfortable fast. Homeowners sometimes notice their system is running, but the air coming out doesn’t feel as cool as it should. This kind of issue becomes especially frustrating when indoor temperatures stay high, even though the system has been on for hours. The good news is most causes can be identified and fixed, as long as they’re handled early.
A heat pump that isn’t cooling properly often signals a specific component failure or oversight. Whether it’s an incorrect setting or a clogged part, each problem has a clear impact on how well your system performs. Catching these issues early not only keeps your home more comfortable but can also help prevent further wear on your equipment.
Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Missteps in thermostat settings are more common than many think. If your heat pump is blowing warm air or struggling to cool your space, your thermostat may be the first thing to check. Something as simple as having it set to heat instead of cool can reverse the system’s output. Another frequent problem is setting the fan to on instead of auto. This leaves the fan running continuously, which may circulate air but not necessarily cooled air.
Make sure to:
– Double-check the thermostat mode is set to cool
– Confirm the temperature setting is a few degrees below the current room temperature
– Set the fan to auto so it only runs when the system is actively cooling
– Keep the unit out of direct sunlight, which can cause it to take inaccurate readings
Also check for low batteries or malfunctioning displays. Thermostats sometimes reset or lose programming during power outages, and depending on the model, may need reprogramming to run correctly again. If you’ve reviewed all these settings and your home still isn’t cooling, it’s time to look deeper into the system itself.
Refrigerant Leaks
The refrigerant inside your heat pump is what absorbs heat from indoors and expels it outside. If there’s a leak, your system can’t transfer heat as effectively, making it feel like the AC is running, but the room isn’t getting any cooler. Refrigerant doesn’t get used up like fuel, so low refrigerant levels almost always point to a leak somewhere in the system.
Several warning signs can point to a refrigerant issue:
– Weak or warm airflow from the vents
– Ice forming on the coils or outdoor unit
– Hissing or bubbling sounds from the system
Ignoring a refrigerant leak can cause the compressor to overwork and possibly fail, which is a much more costly fix. If you suspect a leak, call in our technicians for professional heat pump repair in Gilroy. Our team will be able to detect and repair the leak and recharge the system to the proper levels.
Blocked Air Filters
A clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons a heat pump struggles to cool properly. Over time, filters get packed with dust, dander, and other debris, restricting how much air can move through the system. When airflow is reduced, your heat pump has a harder time pushing cooled air throughout your home, which may leave rooms warmer than expected.
Here are some tips to stay ahead of this problem:
– Check your air filter every month, especially during heavy use seasons like summer
– Replace your filter if it looks dirty or hasn’t been changed in 60 to 90 days
– Use the correct size filter as specified in your unit’s manual
– Avoid reusable filters unless recommended, as they may not provide the same airflow level
For example, a homeowner in Gilroy noticed their living room stayed warm even when the heat pump was running. After checking the vents and thermostat with no success, they replaced the air filter and hours later, the room reached the right temperature. A small fix can often solve a bigger comfort issue when it comes to filters.
Dirty Condenser Coils
The condenser coils on your outdoor heat pump unit are where heat is pushed out of your home during the cooling process. When these coils get covered in dirt, grass clippings, dust, or other debris, they can’t do their job properly. The system ends up using more energy trying to reach the set temperature, and in some cases, you might feel like your system isn’t cooling at all.
Dirty coils act like a blanket over the system, trapping heat instead of letting it release. Over time, this added strain can lead to overheating and unnecessary wear on your unit. Many homeowners in Gilroy are surprised to find out how much performance improves after a coil cleaning.
To prevent dirt buildup and make sure your system is running efficiently:
– Keep plants, shrubs, or fencing at least 2 feet away from your outdoor unit
– Clear leaves and debris from around the base of the unit
– Schedule yearly coil cleaning checks, especially before peak summer months
– Avoid pressure washing the unit yourself, as it can bend the coil fins
Even partial blockage of the condenser coils can noticeably impact performance. If your unit seems like it’s underperforming every summer, dirty coils are an issue worth investigating.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is at the heart of your heat pump’s cooling system. Its job is to circulate the refrigerant, which allows heat to be transferred from indoors to outside. When the compressor starts failing, everything else in the system is affected. You may still hear the system running, but the air coming out doesn’t cool the room.
Common symptoms of compressor trouble include:
– Clicking or rattling sounds when the unit starts
– Warm air blowing even with the correct settings
– The outdoor fan running but not the system itself
– The breaker tripping repeatedly during cooling
Compressor issues should always be addressed by a qualified technician. In some cases, a failing compressor can be repaired early before it causes chain-reaction damage to other parts of the system. If left unaddressed, it may lead to a full system failure or costly replacement.
If your system is older or has been repaired several times without improvement, a faulty compressor could be the issue behind your cooling problems in Gilroy. A proper diagnosis from our professionals can help determine the best course of action while avoiding unnecessary costs.
Keep Your Heat Pump Cooling Performance On Track
When a heat pump isn’t cooling your Gilroy home properly, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or assume the fix will be expensive. But many causes are straightforward and can be resolved with the right approach. Sometimes the issue is as simple as a thermostat setting or a clogged filter. Other times, it may take a trained eye to find a refrigerant leak or spot early signs of compressor failure.
Staying ahead of these common problems can help your system last longer and keep your home more comfortable through the summer. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to new symptoms are key to avoiding sudden breakdowns. If something feels off with how your system is cooling, it’s better to have it checked soon rather than waiting for it to fail when you need it most.
If your heat pump still struggles to keep your Gilroy home cool, it might be time to trust our professionals for heat pump repair in Gilroy to give your system the attention it needs. Malibu Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. understands how frustrating cooling issues can be during the summer, and our professionals are ready to help you maintain a comfortable living space. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
