Why Does My Heat Pump Run Constantly?

More people today choose heat pumps due to their energy efficiency and ability to provide heating and cooling when necessary. However, the technology is still new compared to the alternative. Thus, many heat pump owners still don’t understand how their units work.

As the top choice for reliable heat pump repair services in Roxbury Township, NJ, we see the impact of this lack of understanding of heat pump operation in different ways. One question we hear frequently is, “Why does my heat pump run constantly?” We’ll cover the answer in this post.

Should Heat Pumps Run Constantly?

Heat pumps should run fairly constantly in cold weather. Winter temperatures in New Jersey can drop below 30 degrees. Your heat pump will have to run longer cycles to keep your space warm. So you have no reason to worry if it sounds like the heat pump has continued to run for hours non-stop in this weather condition.

However, if your heat pump runs constantly in the summer while set to cooling mode, you likely have a malfunctioning system. 

Possible Reasons for Heat Pump Running Constantly in Cooling Mode

When people ask us, “Why does my heat pump run constantly?” during the summer months, we’ve always found that it results from one of the following reasons:

Wrong Thermostat Setting

One of the most common reasons for a heat pump constantly running stems from a thermostat set too low or too high. A thermostat set too low during the peak of summer will cause your heat pump to run extended cycles.

A good way to avoid this is to ensure you stay realistic with your thermostat settings. If the temperature you set is more readily attainable, your heat pump will not have to work as hard to achieve the temperature.

To ensure the perfect blend of efficiency and comfort, we recommend setting your thermostat around 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer.

Loss of Conditioned Air

Heat pumps run constantly when they have to compensate for the loss of conditioned air. Do you leave your windows and doors open while the heat pump runs? Too many entry points for outside air will make cooling or heating your home more difficult, regardless of the temperatures you’ve set.

Your heat pump will work for longer periods to balance out the lost conditioned air, but its efforts will likely never be enough.

To keep your heat pump from overworking and to ensure it reaches the advertised lifespan, you need to ensure your home has adequate levels of insulation and minimal exit points for conditioned air.

Clogged Air Filters

Like other HVAC systems, a standard heat pump is designed to draw in clean air to work efficiently. Therefore, clogged filters will keep the unit from functioning properly. One of the signs it will give off in such conditions includes running extended cycles.

If you ask, “Why does my heat pump run constantly?” and you haven’t checked the air filters in your heat pump in a long while, you now have a pretty good idea of where to start your troubleshooting. Replacing dirty air filters can solve a range of other heat pump problems.

Problem With the Condensate Pump

The condensate pumps in heat pump systems ensure the free flow of condensate when the units operate properly. If the pump doesn’t work or has no power to the unit, different problems will develop, including a pump that runs far longer cycles than it should.

A Frozen Outdoor Unit

Heat pumps have a defrost system to keep the outdoor unit from freezing. If your heat pump is running constantly and you find the outdoor unit covered in ice and frost, you need to request repairs right away. The outdoor unit should never freeze at any point, regardless of the weather.

Dirty Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coils play an important role in the function of a heat pump. If your coils appear grimy, dirty, or corroded, the unit will run constantly to compensate for the loss of power. Cleaning the coils is usually enough to return the heat pump to optimal function.

Get Expert Help for Your Heat Pump Troubles

If none of the answers to “Why does my heat pump run constantly?” apply to your situation, consider calling the professionals. At Comfort Specialists, our highly experienced team understands all the parts of a heat pump inside and out. We’ll evaluate your unit and get it working perfectly in one visit.

Call the Comfort Specialists team in Roxbury Township, New Jersey, today at 973-490-4881 to book an appointment.