Why Your Heat Pump Is Blowing Cold Air (And How to Determine if It’s a Problem)
Does the air coming from your vents feel cool, even when your heat pump is running? We often get calls from homeowners worried about this issue, but you may be surprised to learn that in many cases, it’s totally normal! However, there are situations in which cold airflow can indicate an issue with your system.
It’s helpful to know how to check a few simple things and be able to identify a real problem so you know when to call a professional.
First, it’s important to know that heat pumps transfer heat, not generate it. They do this by drawing in heat from the outside air. The warm air output from a heat pump is usually between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. While this is warm enough to heat your home, it’s cooler than the heat a furnace produces, which is often closer to 120°F. It may not feel particularly warm to the touch, since it is closer to your body temperature at 98.5°F. This is why it can be mistaken for cold air!
Here are some other reasons your air might feel cool:
If outside temperatures are very low, your heat pump’s efficiency decreases. This means the system has to run longer, and the air may feel cooler.
If your fan setting is set to “on” instead of “auto,” it may blow room-temperature air as it circulates through the system.
If you recently switched to heating mode, your air might feel cool because your ductwork and coils haven’t had a chance to warm up.
Here’s what to check first if you think the cool air coming from your vents may be an issue:
Check your thermostat settings: Make sure your heat is on, set to the proper temperature, and that your fan is set to automatic mode.
Check your air filter and replace it if there is build-up and discoloration. A dirty filter can stunt your system’s performance!
Check your outdoor unit: Debris, such as snow or leaves, could be preventing heat transfer.
Listen for strange noises: Do you hear clicking, grinding, or loud humming? Time to call a pro!
Check vents and dampers for blockage.
If you’ve done all of these checks and the cold air continues to blow, you may have:
Low refrigerant
Reversing valve problems
Compressor issues
Faulty sensors/controls
At this point, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose the problem. Many issues are normal and easy to repair!
To prevent future issues, make regular service checks a priority! We recommend having your system checked twice a year. If you’re in the Charlottesville area, give our team a call at 434-202-6798.
