Symptoms of a Faulty Heat Pump Reversing Valve

The humble heat pump reversing valve is the key component that helps your Anderson, SC home’s HVAC system deliver dependable comfort all year long. If your heat pump isn’t keeping up with the changing seasons, check closely for signs of a reversing valve gone bad.

Stuck in a Single Mode

True to its name, a heat pump reversing valve works by reversing the flow of refrigerant inside the system. When you switch between heating and cooling modes, the reversing valve switches the direction in which heat is transported. Consequently, if the valve gets stuck, your system won’t be able to change from one mode to the other. Gently tapping on the valve may temporarily free it, but you should still contact a repair specialist right away.

Poor Comfort Control

Is your heat pump struggling to produce enough warm air to keep you cozy? Does cranking up the AC on a hot day seem less effective than it used to be? While it’s far from the only potential culprit, a malfunctioning reversing valve can tank HVAC performance. If the valve allows refrigerant to bleed from one side of the system to the other, it can sharply lower its overall capacity. This may result in less warm or cool air being produced, making your home noticeably less comfortable.

Costly Heating and Cooling

Heat pumps can deliver up to three times more energy than they consume, making them tremendously efficient and affordable to operate. If your HVAC system is suddenly blowing up your energy budget, it may be due to a leaking reversing valve. Since a leaky valve makes your system less effective, it also forces it to work a lot harder. This consumes more and more energy, which you’re likely to notice when your monthly utility bill comes due.

If a faulty heat pump reversing valve is disrupting your comfort, Lovingood Heating Company is here to help. Schedule an appointment with our friendly HVAC repair experts for speedy diagnostics and heat pump repairs in Anderson, SC.