Is your heat pump not working right? You might have too much refrigerant in it. This is called an overcharged heat pump. The symptoms of an overcharged heat pump can be easy to spot if you know what to look for. Today, we will go over the seven most common signs. These signs will help you know when to call an expert.
Symptom #1: High Electric Bills – Common Symptoms of an Overcharged Heat Pump
When your heat pump has too much refrigerant, it has to work harder. Because of this, it uses more power. As a result, your bills go up.
How to Check Your Bills
Look at your old bills. Then, compare them to your new ones. If you see a big jump in cost, your heat pump might be the cause.
| Month | Last Year | This Year | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | $120 | $165 | +$45 |
| July | $135 | $190 | +$55 |
| August | $140 | $200 | +$60 |
Symptom #2: Poor Cooling
One of the clear symptoms of an overcharged heat pump is poor cooling. Your rooms may feel warm even when the AC is on. In addition, some rooms might be cooler than others.
What This Feels Like
Your home may feel stuffy. Also, your vents might not blow air as cold as they should. Furthermore, you might find yourself turning the temp down more and more.
Symptom #3: Frost or Ice – Visible Symptoms of an Overcharged Heat Pump
Ice on your heat pump in summer is not normal. In fact, it’s one of the key symptoms of an overcharged heat pump. The extra refrigerant can cause parts to freeze up.
Where to Look for Ice
Check these places for ice:
- The outdoor unit
- Copper lines
- Around the coils
If you see ice in these spots during hot months, call for help right away.
Symptom #4: Short Cycling
Short cycling means your heat pump turns on and off a lot. This is not good for the system. Moreover, it’s a common sign of too much refrigerant.
Why This Happens
The extra refrigerant makes the pressure too high. Then, the safety switch turns off the unit. After that, it cools down and turns on again. This cycle keeps going over and over.
Symptom #5: Strange Noises
Weird sounds can be symptoms of an overcharged heat pump. Listen for hissing, bubbling, or loud humming. These noises mean the refrigerant is not flowing right.
Sounds to Watch Out For
- Hissing like a snake
- Bubbling like boiling water
- Banging or knocking
- Very loud humming
Symptom #6: High Pressure – Dangerous Symptoms of an Overcharged Heat Pump
High pressure is one of the most serious symptoms of an overcharged heat pump. While you need tools to check this, you can see other signs.
Signs of High Pressure
- Warm air from vents
- Loud operation
- System shuts down often
Only a pro should check and fix the pressure. In other words, don’t try to do this yourself.
Symptom #7: Improper Vent Air
The air from your vents might feel “off” when your heat pump has too much refrigerant. It might not be cold enough. Or it might feel damp or humid.
Testing Your Vent Air
Hold your hand in front of a vent. The air should feel cool and dry. If it feels warm or wet, you may have a problem.
What to Do If You Spot These Symptoms
If you notice these signs, you should call a pro. First, they will test your system. Next, they will remove the extra refrigerant. After that, your system will work better.
Why You Need a Pro
Only trained techs should handle refrigerant. For one thing, it’s the law. For another, it can be harmful if not handled right.
You can learn more about proper refrigerant handling from the EPA’s website on refrigerant regulations.
How Doctor Heat Pump Can Help
At Doctor Heat Pump, we fix overcharged heat pumps every day. Our techs are trained to spot all symptoms of an overcharged heat pump. Plus, we use safe methods to fix the issue.
Our Process
- We check your system
- We test the refrigerant level
- We remove extra refrigerant safely
- We test the system again
- We make sure everything works right
Save Money and Stay Cool
Getting your heat pump fixed will save you money. Also, it will keep your home more comfy. Furthermore, it’s better for the planet.
Want to learn more? Check out our post How Often Does a Air Heat Pump Need Maintenance? Vegas Guide to learn more specifics about regular heat pump maintenance.
Las Vegas Weather and Managing Symptoms of an Overcharged Heat Pump
In Las Vegas, our hot weather makes your heat pump work hard. Therefore, keeping it in good shape is even more important here.
The symptoms of an overcharged heat pump can be worse in our desert heat. So, it’s smart to have your system checked each spring. This way, you can catch problems early.
Call Doctor Heat Pump Today
Don’t wait until your system breaks down. If you see any symptoms of an overcharged heat pump, call us right away at (702) 467-7236. Or contact us via our online form. We serve all Las Vegas and nearby areas. Remember, a well-working heat pump uses less power. Thus, it’s better for the earth and your wallet!
