Common heat pump problems we fix

No heat / weak heat is often tied to airflow restrictions, control settings, sensor issues, or outdoor unit performance under load. In our climate, damp conditions can also expose drainage problems and defrost-cycle issues that aren’t obvious until you hit colder nights.

No cooling / poor cooling usually comes down to control issues, airflow, or system performance not matching the space’s current load. Sometimes the equipment is running, but it isn’t moving enough conditioned air into the space. This can be especially common in multi-level homes or where doors/vents are frequently closed.

Water leaks or pooling can be as simple as a blocked drain line or poor condensate routing, but ignoring it can lead to property damage or system shutdown.

Unusual noise or vibration is common when outdoor units aren’t isolated properly, clearances are tight, or the unit is working harder than necessary. Because Vancouver is noise-sensitive for mechanical equipment, we’ll also recommend fixes that keep operation quiet and neighbour-friendly.

Short cycling (turning on/off frequently) is often a sign of sizing/control problems or airflow restrictions. It can reduce efficiency and accelerate wear if left unresolved.

Repair vs. replace: a quick way to decide

In most cases, a repair makes sense when the system is relatively healthy and the issue is isolated. Replacement becomes the better option when failures are recurring, performance is consistently poor, or the cost of repair is approaching the value of installing a modern, more efficient system.

Additionally, older systems can sometimes make use of older refrigerant types, such as R-22 or R-41 which have been phased out in favour of environmentally-friendly options like R-32 and R-454, which have a lower Global Warming Potential value. If you are experiencing a refrigerant leak in a system using an older refrigerant, replacement will likely be a more cost effective option.

Our technicians will advise you regarding any considerations of the age of the system, and the availability of parts during their visit.

If you land in the “replace” bucket, we’ll route you into the correct next step: a Vancouver heat pump assessment and guidance on permits and rebates.