Many homeowners utilize heat pumps to keep their homes comfortable. It is reliable but, just like any other machine, it will show signs of wearing out as time passes. One of the common issues a heat pump may experience is leaking. Homeowners need to be vigilant when it comes to looking for heat pump leaks. A heat pump leaking water will not operate correctly. The cause of this can be due to several problems the heat pump or its components have.
How Heat Pump Leaks Happen
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Understanding the reason behind the heat pump leak will help you prevent any further problems and ensure that it does not happen again. Listed below are a few of the common reasons:
Dirty Heat Pump Coil
The evaporator coil is what collects the moisture from the air around it. The water passes through the coil and into a drain pan. The pan is also connected to a pipe for proper water disposal. However, dirt and other contaminants can build up in the evaporator coil. When this happens, the water cannot be drained properly. The water should go into the pan, but it will instead leak out of the coil.
Solution: Contact a professional HVAC tech to completely clean your heat pump. They are equipped with the right tools to ensure that the job is done quickly and effectively.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
If you are low on refrigerant, the coil might freeze. Ice will form in your system’s interior when this happens. The ice will eventually melt into water and lead to leaking. Another problem you might experience from having frozen coils is a faulty heat pump. It will end up straining to ensure that the temperature demands are met. This will significantly reduce your heat pump’s efficiency, which will be reflected in your high energy bills.
Solution: Hire an expert HVAC technician to inspect your system. They can remove the ice properly and top off the refrigerant so that the evaporator coil does not freeze again.
Condensate Drain Clog
A fully operational heat pump has a built-in drain system. Over time, this drain can accumulate dust, dirt, and other contaminants. It can get clogged and stop water from being disposed of properly. Heat pumps cannot hold a lot of water, so the excess water will leak out of the system.
Solution: Have a professional HVAC company conduct regular heat pump maintenance on your system. This way, the problem is repaired correctly and does not happen again.
Cracked Overflow Pan
One of a heat pump’s primary functions is pulling moisture from the air. This is part of the cooling process and is necessary to the system’s overall functionality. The water collected passes through the evaporator coils and into a drain pan. The pan is constantly filled with water, and this encourages rust and corrosion. When this happens, the pan can develop holes and cracks where water can leak through.
Solution: Check the drain pan periodically to ensure that it is in tiptop shape. If you notice that your heat pump produces more water than it should, call a professional to check your system.
Poor Heat Pump Maintenance
Many homeowners do not conduct regular HVAC maintenance on their heat pumps. This simple tune-up process will help ensure that your system runs more efficiently, performs better, and has a longer lifespan. It includes a thorough inspection so that all existing problems your heat pump might have are resolved before they cause further damage. After all, most heat pump issues begin as small ones that are easy to repair. For instance, it could have dirty or frozen coils that can be easily remedied by a professional.
Solution: If you have a supplemental heat pump, make sure that it is checked and maintained by a trained and licensed professional annually. If the heat pump is the primary source of heating and cooling in your home, have it serviced two times per year.
Preventing Heat Pump Leaks
Suppose your heat pump is correctly installed by a professional and matches your home’s heating and cooling requirements. In that case, you can ensure that it doesn’t leak by scheduling preventative maintenance regularly. You should also read the manufacturer’s care guide and follow it carefully. Keep an eye out for any problem your heat pump might have. The earlier the problem is caught, the better it will be for your heat pump’s efficiency, lifespan, and operation. Do not conduct do-it-yourself repairs on your heat pump. It is always wise to have a professional HVAC contractor conduct proper maintenance and repairs on your system.
Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning For Your HVAC Requirements
PFO Heating & Air Conditioning provides high-quality HVAC services in the Greater Princeton, NJ area. Rest assured, we only hire the best professionally certified technicians who can service any HVAC make and model correctly. Our knowledgeable and experienced HVAC technicians offer heating and air conditioning services, such as heat pump maintenance, boiler repairs, AC replacements, furnace installations, and more.
Our company offers highly affordable and the most competitive heating and cooling services prices in the area. We can help enhance your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and more through our maintenance services. We can also help you find the best HVAC repair and replacement solutions that fit your needs and budget. To ensure your satisfaction, we back all our work with a guarantee. Book a service appointment with PFO Heating & Air Conditioning today. We offer free, no-obligation, in-home estimates.
Contact us now at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!