Heat Pumps
Heat pump repair
A heat pump that blows cool air in winter, stays coated in ice, or leans constantly on its electric backup heat usually has a defrost control, sensor, reversing valve or refrigerant problem. A technician tests the system in both heating and cooling modes.
- Same-day service when a technician is available
- Serving the Kansas City metro
- Quote before work
Some frost on a heat pump in winter is normal, and the unit should defrost itself every so often, sending up a cloud of steam. A unit that stays encased in ice has a defrost problem.
In subzero weather most older heat pumps rely on electric strips or a gas furnace for backup. If your electric bill spikes during a cold month, the backup may be carrying the whole load.
Heat pump repair at a glance
- Normal
- Light frost and brief defrost cycles
- Not normal
- Unit encased in ice
Signs you need heat pump repair
- Outdoor unit solid with ice
- Lukewarm air in heating mode
- "Aux" or "Emergency heat" on constantly
- Won't switch between heating and cooling
- Loud whoosh or grinding
How the technician handles it
- 1
Test both modes
Check heating and cooling operation, defrost cycle and reversing valve.
- 2
Check charge
Measure refrigerant pressures and look for leaks.
- 3
Repair and verify
Replace the failed part and confirm defrost and backup heat staging.
What affects the cost
Prices depend on what the technician finds, so the contractor quotes on site. These are the main factors:
- Part failed (sensor vs. reversing valve vs. compressor)
- Refrigerant leak repair
- Backup heat strips
- System age
What you can do, and when to stop
Safe to do yourself
- Clear snow and ice from around the base of the outdoor unit
- Change filters
Call a technician
- Chipping ice off the coil
- Running on emergency heat for weeks
Frequently asked questions
Why is my heat pump blowing cold air?
During defrost it briefly blows cooler air, which is normal. Constant cool air in heating mode points to a reversing valve, charge or control problem.
Related services
Guides
Need heat pump repair in Kansas City?
Same-day service when a technician is available. One call connects you with a licensed HVAC contractor who serves your ZIP.