4 Reasons Your Heat Pump Doesn’t Run Long Enough in Myrtle Beach, SC
A heat pump is a fantastic HVAC option for your home in Myrtle Beach, SC. When working correctly, a heat pump should run about 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times an hour. Here are four issues that often contribute to heat pump short cycling.
1. It Needs a New Air Filter
If your heat pump’s air filter gets clogged, it will restrict airflow through the system. That can trigger premature shutdowns to avoid damage to your heat pump. In that case, replacing your air filter with a clean one should restore your system to regular operation.
2. A Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your heat pump takes its cues from the thermostat located in your living space. If your thermostat malfunctions, it may cause your heat pump to act erratically. It can also happen if your thermostat isn’t reading room temperatures correctly.
Most thermostats last about 10 years before needing replacement. If yours is older than that, it could explain the erratic heat pump behavior. If your thermostat sits in direct sunlight or near an artificial heat source, that added warmth can also affect its temperature readings.
3. You Have an Oversized Heat Pump
An oversized heat pump may also lead to short cycling. At the time of installation, your HVAC installer should have performed a Manual J calculation on your home. That would have told them the precise size of the heat pump needed for your house.
If your installer didn’t perform that calculation, they may have selected too large a heat pump. In addition to short cycling, it would likely produce pronounced temperature swings in your home.
4. A Refrigerant Leak
Your heat pump relies on a closed refrigerant loop to function. If that loop leaks and loses refrigerant, it will hamper your heat pump’s functionality. That may include short cycling as your heat pump tries to compensate for its pressure loss.
A short cycling heat pump in your Myrtle Beach, SC home isn’t something to ignore. Call Ductworks Heating & Cooling, Inc. for professional heat pump repair today!
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