Summer weather in Fern Creek, KY can quickly become unbearable without a reliable, efficiently-running heat pump. But what should you do when your heat pump doesn’t stop running? Here are a few common reasons why a heat pump runs constantly and how these issues can be identified and addressed to keep your unit running smoothly.
Refrigerant Leak
Heat pumps require the right amount of refrigerant to ensure they’re running optimally. A refrigerant leak can cause the unit to constantly run while not providing the cooling power you expect. If the unit runs in cooling mode but is not actually cooling the home, the AC system will run constantly.
When refrigerant leaks, you might notice a hissing sound near the air handler. That is a sure sign to call for repairs.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
Sometimes, the evaporator coil that carries the refrigerant will freeze. This is often due to a lack of proper airflow, which has a variety of causes. When the coil freezes, it can’t adequately pull the heat from the air.
You might also notice water leaking near the indoor unit. If you do, check your filter and change it if it’s clogged, as that is one common cause that you can easily take care of yourself. For other causes of a frozen coil, regular AC maintenance can help prevent this problem.
Faulty Thermostat
A thermostat will often fail years before the rest of your AC system. This can cause your system to run continuously or not run at all. If the indoor temperature does not seem to match what the thermostat reads, it may be time to replace it.
Incorrect Temperature Setting
If your AC runs continuously, check the thermostat to ensure it is set correctly for the desired temperature. If it is too low, your system may be unable to keep up. You can try raising the temperature a few degrees to see if this fixes the problem.
It can be difficult to figure out why your heat pump is constantly running, so don’t try and tackle the task alone. Our technicians are fully licensed, NATE-certified and equipped to provide quality service and maintenance for all your residential and commercial HVAC needs. Call us at Elder Heating and Air in Fern Creek, KY to schedule an AC service appointment.
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