From Cold to Cozy: A DIY Guide to Fixing Your Heat Pump and Furnace Woes

Why Your Heat Pump Stopped Heating (And What You Can Do About It)

When your heat pump not heating properly leaves you shivering in your New Orleans home, you need answers fast. The good news? Many heating issues have simple solutions you can try before calling a professional.

Common causes of a heat pump not heating:

1. Thermostat set incorrectly - Check it's in "heat" mode with fan on "auto"
2. Dirty air filter - Replace every 1-3 months for proper airflow
3. Outdoor unit blocked - Clear debris, leaves, or ice buildup
4. Tripped circuit breaker - Reset breakers for both indoor and outdoor units
5. Low refrigerant - Requires professional repair
6. Faulty reversing valve - Stuck in cooling mode, needs technician
7. Defrost cycle active - Normal operation that causes temporary cold air

Your heat pump works differently than a furnace. Instead of creating heat, it transfers heat from outside air into your home - even when it's cold outside. This process can fail for several reasons, but many are easier to fix than you might think.

The air from a working heat pump typically feels around 85-95°F, which is cooler than furnace air (120-140°F). This means it might feel lukewarm against your skin, but it's still heating your home effectively.

Understanding these basics helps you troubleshoot problems and know when to tackle repairs yourself versus when to call Climate Tamers for professional help.

First, Understand How Your Heat Pump Creates Warmth

Before we dive into troubleshooting why your heat pump not heating, let's understand how these ingenious devices actually work. It's pretty fascinating once you get the hang of it!

Unlike a traditional furnace that creates heat by burning fuel, your heat pump is more like a heat detective – it finds warmth that's already out there and brings it inside. Even when it's freezing outside, there's still heat energy floating around in the air. Your heat pump just knows how to capture it.

This magic happens through something called the refrigeration cycle. Think of it like your refrigerator working in reverse. Instead of pulling heat out of your leftovers to keep them cold, your heat pump pulls heat out of the outdoor air to keep you cozy.

Here's how the dance works: Your outdoor unit contains special coils filled with refrigerant that acts like a heat sponge, soaking up warmth from outside air. This refrigerant then gets compressed and heated up even more before traveling to your indoor unit. There, it releases all that captured heat into the air that flows through your home's ducts.

It's the same clever process that allows your heat pump to provide both heating and cooling your home depending on what you need. Pretty neat, right?

For a deeper dive into how these systems work (and sometimes don't), check out our guide on Understanding Heat Pump Challenges: Essential Information for Homeowners.

Why Heat Pump Air Feels Different Than Furnace Air

Here's where many folks think their heat pump not heating when it's actually working perfectly fine. The air coming from your vents just feels different than what you might expect from a furnace.

Your body temperature sits around 98.6°F, so anything cooler than that can feel less than toasty. Heat pumps typically deliver air between 85-95°F – warm enough to heat your home, but cool enough against your skin to feel lukewarm or even slightly cool.

Gas furnaces, on the other hand, blast air at 120-140°F. That's hot enough to make you jump back from a vent! But here's the thing: hotter doesn't necessarily mean better.

Heat PumpFurnaceAir Temperature: 85-95°FAir Temperature: 120-140°FFeels: Warm to lukewarmFeels: Very hotHeating Style: Steady, consistentHeating Style: Quick bursts

Heat pumps are designed for gradual heating – they maintain your comfort level steadily rather than shocking your system with intense heat. It's like the difference between a gentle warm hug and a hot flash.

So if your thermostat shows your desired temperature and your home feels comfortable, don't worry about that lukewarm air from the vents. Your heat pump is doing exactly what it's supposed to do. If you're curious about other heating quirks, our article Why is Your Furnace Blowing Cold Air Instead of Heat? covers some common issues.

The Impact of Extreme Cold Weather

Even the most efficient heat pump faces challenges when Mother Nature gets cranky. As outdoor temperatures drop, there's simply less heat energy available for your system to capture. This means reduced efficiency and your heat pump working overtime to keep you comfortable.

When temperatures dip below freezing, you might notice your heat pump running almost constantly. Don't panic – this is often completely normal. Your system is just working harder to extract every bit of available warmth from that chilly air.

Here's where things get interesting: ice buildup on your outdoor unit is actually expected in certain conditions. When it's cold and humid, frost forms on the outdoor coils. Too much ice acts like a blanket, blocking your heat pump from doing its job.

That's when the defrost cycle kicks in. Your heat pump temporarily switches into reverse, essentially going into cooling mode for 5-15 minutes to melt that ice away. During this time, you might see steam rising from your outdoor unit and feel cool air from your vents. It looks dramatic, but it's totally normal.

For those extra bitter days (thankfully rare in New Orleans!), your system likely has backup auxiliary heat strips that automatically kick in when your heat pump needs help. These electric heating elements ensure you stay warm, though they use more energy than your heat pump alone.

Want to make sure your system is ready for whatever winter throws at it? Our Handbook to Get Your Heater Ready for Winter has you covered.

DIY Troubleshooting: Simple Checks Before You Call for Help

Before you panic and pick up the phone, there are several simple checks you can perform when your heat pump not heating. These DIY steps can often resolve common issues, saving you time and potentially a service call. We always encourage our customers to try these easy fixes first!

For more general troubleshooting tips, our HVAC Troubleshooter can be a great resource.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

This might seem obvious, but it's often the culprit! A misconfigured thermostat is a surprisingly common reason for a heat pump not heating.

1. Mode Setting: Is your thermostat set to "Heat" mode? Sometimes, it might accidentally be switched to "Cool," "Off," or "Fan Only." Ensure it's clearly set to "Heat."
2. Fan Setting: Make sure the fan setting is on "AUTO," not "ON." If the fan is set to "ON," it will blow air continuously, even when the heat pump isn't actively heating, which can make the air feel cool. In "AUTO" mode, the fan only runs when the system is actively heating or cooling.
3. Temperature Setting: Is the desired temperature set higher than the current room temperature? If your thermostat is set to 70°F and your home is already 72°F, the heat pump won't turn on.
4. Dead Batteries: For battery-powered thermostats, low batteries can cause erratic behavior or prevent the thermostat from communicating with your heat pump. Replace them if needed.
5. Smart Thermostat Glitches: If you have a smart thermostat, check its schedule and settings. Sometimes, programming errors or Wi-Fi connectivity issues can lead to unexpected behavior. Review its history to see if it's been calling for heat. Heat pumps work most efficiently when maintaining a consistent temperature, so avoid large temperature swings.

Inspect and Change Your Air Filter

A dirty air filter is like trying to breathe through a clogged vacuum cleaner bag – it just doesn't work well! This simple oversight is a leading cause of a heat pump not heating efficiently.

A clogged filter restricts airflow to your indoor unit. This means your heat pump has to work much harder to pull air through, reducing its efficiency and heat output. In severe cases, restricted airflow can even cause the evaporator coil (the indoor coil) to freeze up, completely preventing heating. You might notice very little air coming from your vents, or the air feels cool.

We recommend checking your air filter monthly and replacing it when it looks visibly dirty, or at least every one to three months. During peak heating season or if you have pets, you might need to change it more frequently. It's a small task that makes a huge difference in your system's performance and your indoor air quality.

Clear and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit is the workhorse of your heat pump system, responsible for absorbing heat from the outside air. If it's blocked or dirty, it can't do its job, and your heat pump not heating is the result.

Inspect the outdoor unit for any obstructions. Common culprits include:

• Leaves, twigs, and debris: These can accumulate around the unit, blocking airflow.
• Snow and ice buildup: In winter, heavy snowfall or ice can cover the unit, especially after a defrost cycle that doesn't fully clear the ice.
• Tall grass or overgrown shrubs: Ensure there's at least two feet of clearance around the entire unit for optimal airflow.

Clear away any visible debris. If there's ice buildup, you can gently remove snow with a broom. For ice, you can try gently hosing it off with warm water (not hot!) or setting your system to fan mode for a while to help it defrost. Never chip away at ice with sharp objects, as you could damage delicate coils.

Regularly cleaning the outdoor coil (the metal fins) by gently rinsing it with a garden hose can also improve efficiency. For detailed guidance on maintaining your outdoor unit, check out our Maintenance Tips Home Heat Pump.

Check for Tripped Breakers

Sometimes, the simplest solution is an electrical one. If your heat pump not heating at all, or if it suddenly stopped working, a tripped circuit breaker might be the cause.

Your heat pump system typically has two circuit breakers: one for the indoor unit (air handler) and one for the outdoor unit. Check your home's electrical panel. Look for any breakers that are in the "OFF" position or are "tripped" (often halfway between "ON" and "OFF").

To reset a tripped breaker:

1. Flip it completely to the "OFF" position.
2. Then, flip it firmly back to the "ON" position.

Also, check if there's a separate power switch near your indoor air handler. Make sure it's in the "ON" position. If a breaker immediately trips again after you reset it, or if your system still doesn't turn on, it indicates a more serious electrical problem that requires professional attention. Do not keep resetting a breaker that repeatedly trips, as this could indicate a dangerous electrical fault.

When DIY Isn't Enough: Common Reasons for a Heat Pump Not Heating

Sometimes, despite your best troubleshooting efforts, your heat pump not heating problem runs deeper than a dirty filter or wrong thermostat setting. When this happens, it's time to step back and let the professionals handle it. These more complex issues involve intricate mechanical systems, specialized refrigerants, and electrical components that require proper training and certification to repair safely.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't perform surgery on yourself, right? The same logic applies to your heat pump's internal organs. Attempting to fix these advanced problems yourself could lead to expensive damage, safety hazards, or even void your warranty. Plus, you might end up spending more money trying to fix something incorrectly than if you'd called a professional from the start.

The good news is that recognizing when you're in over your head is actually a smart homeowner skill. If your basic checks haven't solved the problem, or if you notice any of the warning signs we'll discuss below, it's time to call in the experts. For guidance on spotting these red flags, our resources on Signs Heating System Needs Repair and When to Call for Heating Repair can help you make the right call.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Here's something that surprises many homeowners: your heat pump doesn't "use up" refrigerant like your car burns gasoline. Refrigerant is supposed to stay sealed inside the system, cycling endlessly between liquid and gas states. So if your heat pump not heating efficiently and refrigerant levels are low, there's almost certainly a leak somewhere.

Refrigerant leaks are sneaky troublemakers. They might start small and gradually worsen over time, causing your system's performance to slowly decline. You might notice hissing or bubbling sounds coming from the unit - that's the sound of refrigerant escaping. Frost buildup on the coils that doesn't go away after a defrost cycle is another telltale sign, as low refrigerant causes the coils to get abnormally cold.

The heating performance suffers too. Your system might run constantly but struggle to reach your desired temperature, or the air from your vents feels lukewarm even by heat pump standards. Your energy bills might creep up as the system works harder to compensate for the missing refrigerant.

Here's the important part: handling refrigerant requires special certification and tools. It's not just about safety (though refrigerant can be dangerous) - it's actually illegal for unlicensed individuals to purchase or handle refrigerant. A qualified technician will locate the leak, repair it properly, and recharge your system with the exact amount of refrigerant it needs. If you're dealing with refrigerant issues in the New Orleans area, our team at Heat Pump Repair New Orleans LA has the expertise and certification to get your system running right.

A Faulty Reversing Valve

The reversing valve is like your heat pump's brain - it tells the refrigerant which direction to flow to either heat or cool your home. When this crucial component gets stuck or malfunctions, your heat pump not heating makes perfect sense: it might be stuck in cooling mode even when you desperately need warmth.

Imagine setting your thermostat to heat on a chilly morning, only to have cold air blowing from your vents. That's the classic sign of a reversing valve stuck in the wrong position. You might also hear clicking or chattering noises as the valve tries unsuccessfully to switch modes.

This problem is particularly frustrating because everything else seems to be working fine. The outdoor unit runs, the indoor fan blows air, and your thermostat appears to be functioning normally. But that stubborn valve keeps your system in the wrong mode, leaving you cold and confused.

Reversing valve repairs require accessing internal components and understanding the complex refrigerant flow patterns. It's definitely not a weekend DIY project. A professional technician can diagnose whether the valve itself is faulty or if there's an electrical problem preventing it from switching properly. Our team handles all types of Heat Pump Repairs and Replacements, including these tricky reversing valve situations.

Malfunctioning Auxiliary or Emergency Heat

When temperatures drop really low, your heat pump calls in reinforcements - usually electric heating strips or a backup furnace in dual-fuel systems. These auxiliary heating elements are like your system's emergency backup plan. But when they fail, your heat pump not heating adequately becomes a real problem during cold snaps.

You'll typically notice this issue when your heat pump seems to be working (you can hear it running outside), and air is blowing from your vents, but your home just can't seem to reach the temperature you've set. The air might feel barely warm or even cool, especially during those rare New Orleans cold fronts.

The tricky part is that auxiliary heat problems are usually electrical in nature. The heating elements might burn out, wiring connections could fail, or the control board that signals them to activate might malfunction. These aren't simple fixes - they involve working with high-voltage electrical components that can be dangerous without proper training and safety equipment.

Sometimes homeowners notice their heat pump running constantly during cold weather but never quite catching up to the thermostat setting. This could mean the auxiliary heat isn't kicking in when it should, leaving the main heat pump to struggle alone against the cold. A professional can test these backup systems and ensure they're ready to support your heat pump when needed. For more insights into these and other heating challenges, check out our guide on Common Heating System Problems.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heat Pump Heating Issues

We get calls every day from concerned homeowners asking "Why is my heat pump not heating?" After years of helping New Orleans families stay comfortable, we've noticed the same questions come up again and again. Here are the answers to the most common concerns we hear.

Why is my heat pump running but not blowing hot air?

This question probably keeps more homeowners awake at night than any other heating issue! The good news is that a running heat pump that's not blowing hot air doesn't always mean something's broken.

Your heat pump might be going through its defrost cycle, which is completely normal in cold weather. During this brief process, you'll feel cool air from your vents while the system melts ice off the outdoor coil. It's doing exactly what it's supposed to do!

However, if the air stays cool for more than 15 minutes, you might be dealing with low refrigerant levels due to a leak. When your system doesn't have enough refrigerant, it simply can't transfer enough heat into your home, leaving you with lukewarm or cool air instead of the cozy warmth you're expecting.

A dirty air filter can also be the culprit. When airflow gets restricted, your heat pump struggles to distribute the warmth it's creating. It's like trying to breathe through a pillow - everything just works harder with less success.

Don't forget to double-check your thermostat settings too. Make sure it's set to "Heat" mode with the fan on "Auto," and verify that your desired temperature is actually higher than what your home currently feels like.

The most frustrating scenario involves a faulty reversing valve that's stuck in cooling mode. Your poor heat pump is literally trying to cool your house when you desperately need heat!

How do I know if my heat pump is in defrost mode?

Learning to recognize defrost mode can save you from unnecessary worry (and service calls!). It's actually pretty easy to spot once you know what to look for.

First, glance outside at your outdoor unit - the fan will stop spinning completely. This is your biggest clue that defrost mode has kicked in. You'll also likely see steam or water vapor rising from the unit as the ice melts away. It looks dramatic, but it's perfectly normal!

Inside your home, you'll notice temporary cold air coming from your vents. This can feel alarming when you're already chilly, but remember - it's just temporary. The whole process typically lasts between 5 and 15 minutes, then your heat pump goes right back to warming your home.

If you're still seeing ice on the outdoor unit after 20 minutes, or if defrost cycles seem to be happening constantly, that's when it's time to give us a call. Something might need attention.

Can I fix a refrigerant leak myself?

We appreciate the DIY spirit, but this is one repair that's absolutely off-limits for homeowners. The answer is a firm no, and here's why we're so adamant about it.

Refrigerant operates under extremely high pressure and can cause chemical burns or frostbite if it contacts your skin. It can also cause serious respiratory problems if you breathe it in. These aren't risks worth taking, no matter how handy you are around the house.

There are also EPA regulations that require proper licensing to handle refrigerant. It's not just about safety - it's the law. Refrigerants are potent greenhouse gases, and releasing them into the atmosphere (even accidentally) is heavily regulated for good reason.

Professional technicians use specialized tools like manifold gauges, vacuum pumps, and electronic leak detectors that most homeowners don't have access to. Even finding the leak can be incredibly challenging, as many are tiny pinhole leaks that are nearly invisible.

When you suspect a refrigerant leak, your safest bet is always to contact a licensed professional. We have the training, tools, and certifications to safely locate the problem, repair it properly, and recharge your system to the correct levels. For your safety and peace of mind, always rely on Professional Heating Repair for Safety.

Don't Get Left in the Cold – Know When to Get Professional Help

While we absolutely love helping homeowners tackle simple fixes, there's a point where DIY reaches its limits. If you've worked through our troubleshooting checklist and your heat pump not heating properly is still leaving you chilly, it's time to bring in the cavalry.

Some problems are simply too complex or dangerous for weekend warriors to handle safely. Complex mechanical issues like a seized compressor, internal component failures, or intricate control board malfunctions require years of training to diagnose properly. Electrical problems within your heat pump system can pose serious safety risks - we're talking about high-voltage components that can cause injury or even house fires if handled incorrectly.

Here's the thing about attempting major repairs yourself: you might end up causing more damage than you started with. What could have been a moderate repair bill can quickly balloon into a full system replacement. Plus, most manufacturers will void your warranty if they find unauthorized repairs were attempted.

At Climate Tamers, we've been keeping New Orleans area families comfortable for over 50 years. We know the unique challenges our Gulf Coast climate presents - from the sticky summers that work your heat pump overtime in cooling mode to those surprisingly chilly winter nights when you need reliable heat. Our team serves the Greater New Orleans Area, including New Orleans, Metairie, and Kenner, with one simple mission: exceptional customer service that earns your trust for life.

Regular maintenance is your best defense against most heating problems. Think of it like changing the oil in your car - skip it too often, and you'll face much bigger problems down the road. A well-maintained heat pump runs more efficiently, costs less to operate, and rarely leaves you in the lurch on the coldest night of the year. Wondering what happens when you skip those tune-ups? Our article on What Happens If You Avoid HVAC Maintenance? paints a pretty clear picture.

When your heat pump not heating leaves you reaching for extra blankets, don't tough it out. Our prompt, reliable service means you won't be left shivering while waiting for help. For reliable and prompt service in the New Orleans area, trust our team to restore your comfort. Contact us for all your heating service needs in New Orleans, LA - we're here to get you from freezing to toasty in no time!