Heat Pump Refrigeration Problems
admin • March 7, 2012

Heat pumps in Damascus are very complicated pieces of equipment that use a number of moving parts to compress and circulate refrigerant, and extract heat from one environment and place it in another. So, if your heat pump has refrigeration problems, it will almost certainly cause problems for the heating or cooling of your home.

Common Refrigeration Problems

There are a number of potential problems your heat pump might face, especially as it begins to age and components become worn. Some common issues include:

  • Compressor Issues – The compressor is a component in your heat pump that compresses the refrigerant gas into a liquid. This liquid is what circulates through the device and extracts heat from the outside air (or inside your home when in cooling mode). If the heat pump doesn’t turn on properly, isn’t producing enough heat or is using a large amount of electricity suddenly, it may be a compressor problem.
  • Refrigerant Leaks – Your heat pump doesn’t consume any refrigerant during operation. So, if it starts to leak refrigerant, there is likely another problem your heat pump needs to be repaired immediately (for health and environmental reasons). Common signs of a leak include suddenly higher electrical bills, inefficient heating and possibly even a faint odor near the device.
  • Freezing Up – If your heat pump freezes, you should check for any blocked air vents or registers, check the condensate line and check your filter for blockage. Most often, a freezing problem is directly related to something being clogged and is a relatively easy fix. The only way to know for sure is to call a professional to investigate, however.

A heat pump is a very complex piece of machinery with a number of moving parts that can all cause issues if not properly maintained. If your heat pump stops heating or cooling effectively and it is not a simple fix such as a filter or belt, you should call Clean Air Act to inspect for more significant problems such as the compressor or refrigerant.

Outside view of snow covered Portland, OR to represent the need for furnace tune-up this winter.
By Rodger Brown November 26, 2025
Prevent breakdowns, reduce safety risks, and lower heating costs with a furnace tune-up in Portland, OR. The Clean Air Act keeps your home winter-ready.
An Alpine forest with mountains covered with snow.
By Rodger Brown October 27, 2025
Sealed homes trap pollutants in cold months. Change filters, book HVAC maintenance, upgrade to higher-MERV filters, and add a dehumidifier to manage moisture and prevent mold.
Clear Air technician performing a fall furnace tune-up and filter change in a Washington home.
By Rodger Brown September 30, 2025
Prep for cooler weather with a furnace tune-up, fresh filters, smart thermostat settings, and clean ducts/registers. Get practical energy-saving tips for Washington homes.
Wildfire smoke impacts indoor air too. Learn why changing your air filters during wildfire season.
By Rodger Brown August 26, 2025
Smoke and wildfire in Washington representing why checking HVAC air filter is important.
Clean Air technician cleaning residential air ducts to reduce summer allergies in a Portland home.
By Rodger Brown August 1, 2025
Summer allergies in Portland? Discover how duct cleaning improves air quality, reduces allergens, and boosts HVAC efficiency during peak pollen season.
Portland Oregon sign during a hot summer day in Portland, Oregon.
By Rodger Brown June 23, 2025
Beat the heat in Portland with regular AC maintenance. Lower your energy bills, reduce breakdowns, and breathe easier. Schedule with The Clean Air Act today!
Show More