In Fort Walton Beach, we spend most of the year thinking about how to stay cool—not how to stay warm. That’s why many homeowners don’t notice a problem with their heat pump until those rare cool mornings arrive and the system doesn’t seem to switch from cooling to heating.
If your heat pump isn’t warming your home when you need it most, don’t panic. The issue could be something simple—or it might require the help of the Peaden Pros. Here’s how to troubleshoot the situation and get your comfort back on track.
Understanding the “Seasonal Switch”
A heat pump works differently than a traditional furnace. Instead of generating heat, it transfers it. In summer, it pulls heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors. In winter, the process reverses—your system extracts heat from the outdoor air and brings it inside.
That “switch” from cooling to heating happens when the reversing valve changes the direction of refrigerant flow. But when something interferes with that process, your heat pump can get stuck in cooling mode—or fail to produce warm air at all.
Because we don’t rely heavily on heating in the Gulf Coast, you might not notice an issue until the temperature dips. By then, dust buildup, worn components, or electrical glitches may have had months to develop unnoticed.
Check These Simple Fixes First
Before calling for service, there are a few easy things homeowners can check:
- Thermostat settings: Make sure it’s switched to “HEAT,” not “COOL,” and that the temperature is set several degrees higher than the current room temperature.
- Circuit breakers: Verify that both the indoor air handler and outdoor unit breakers are in the ON position. Tripped breakers can stop the system from heating.
- Air filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow and can cause the system to shut down or underperform. Replace it if it looks dusty or gray.
- Outdoor unit: Clear away any debris, leaves, or obstructions around the heat pump. Good airflow is essential for proper heating operation.
If you’ve checked all these and your system still isn’t warming your home, it’s time to call in the experts.
When It’s Time to Call the Peaden Pros
Some heat pump issues require professional repair. Common causes include:
- A malfunctioning reversing valve: This component allows the system to switch between cooling and heating modes. If it fails, your heat pump may blow cold air even in heating mode.
- Low refrigerant levels: Without enough refrigerant, your system can’t absorb or transfer heat effectively.
- Electrical or control board problems: Faulty sensors, relays, or connections can disrupt heating operation.
- Compressor issues: If your compressor is struggling, it can prevent your system from producing sufficient heat.
The Peaden Pros have the tools and experience to diagnose these problems quickly and get your heat pump working again. We’ll inspect your system, identify the issue, and perform the necessary repairs with precision and care.
Heat Pump Help Is Here!
If your heat pump won’t switch modes or isn’t producing warm air, don’t wait until the next cold front to fix it. Call Peaden today to schedule expert repairs for heat pumps in Fort Walton Beach, FL, and let the Peaden Pros make sure your home stays comfortable—no matter what the season brings.