How to Troubleshoot Heat Pump Coils

Heat pump coils are where most of the problems occur when dealing with a heat pump. They carry the fluids of a heat pump and are the heat exchanging system that allows a heat pump to be as efficient and reliable as possible. The best way to troubleshoot heat pump coils is with preemptive maintenance.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Remove the cover of the heat pump by taking out eight to 12 screws that hold it in place.

2. The coils will be easy to see; they will be exposed after the cover is removed. Use a whisk broom to gently brush off the coils and remove any debris from around them. Turn on the unit to see if there is any difference in performance. If the coils were clogged with refuse, they were probably virtually unable to work. By cleaning the coils, you might have solved any problems you had.

3. Check to see if the heating/cooling fan is spinning. You will need to turn on the unit. If the fan is not spinning, the bearings on the motor are bad and will need to be replaced. You need airflow over the coils to make the heat pump work, so if this is not happening because your fan no longer works, a professional will have to came in and change it out.

Tips & Warnings

• Where gloves to insure you do not burn your hands because you will need to turn the heat pump on throughout this process.

References

• Guide to Heat Pump Operation