The outdoor fan for a heat pump should spin constantly during normal operation. It may even start spinning during the defrost cycle. If the fan won't move at all, there is a problem.
Electrical issues such as a tripped circuit breaker, malfunctioning capacitor, or faulty wiring can prevent the heat pump fan from receiving the power it requires. Contact a qualified HVAC technician or licensed electrician for repair if a power supply issue is preventing your heat pump fan from turning.
In general, the average life expectancy of a heat pump is 10 to 15 years, depending on a wide variety of factors. A ductless mini-split heat pump can last 10 to 30 years depending on the same variables.
Also, don't let your heat pump run without a functioning fan. Otherwise, it can overheat the compressor and make the repairs cost more.
If your heat pump does not have a reset button, it will have a power switch. Turn the switch off, wait for two to three minutes, then turn the switch on again.
To put it simply: Yes, the outside fan should run when your heat pump is in heating mode. Here's why. The outside fan is responsible for the transfer of heat from the outdoor air to the refrigerant coils inside the outdoor unit. Even in cold weather there is some heat present in the outdoor air.
If your heat pump is on but not blowing hot air, it could be due to a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning thermostat. The outdoor unit may also be iced over, or the reversing valve may not be working properly. Contact a professional for further inspection.
It typically takes one to four hours for the technician to replace the AC fan motor. Normally, good technicians will check for other issues during this replacement. If more problems are found, they will be repaired as well.
Regular upkeep reduces the likelihood of no-blower faults down the road: Annual Checkups – Technicians can spot failing parts like deteriorating motor windings during yearly tune-ups.
Choose "AUTO" for energy savings and "ON" if you want constant air circulation or improved air filtration. Temperatures can soar or plummet depending on the time of year.
If your fan will not spin at all, this is a sign that the capacitor or motor is dead. To be 100% sure your motor is broken, you may need to contact a skilled HVAC professional. Dealing with motors and wires on your own could raise the risk of electrocution and shock.
Heat Pump: Like a furnace, a blower motor in a heat pump can last at least 10 years, and up to 15 if the unit undergoes regular maintenance.
Keeping the fan on creates a more even distribution of heating and cooling, circulating the air if you have cold or hot spots in your house, like a bedroom above a garage. Less frequent starts and stops of the fan can reduce the stress from startup, and potentially help extend it's lifespan.
After everything is off, wait up to five minutes, and the heat pump should be reset. You must then flip everything back on in the opposite order it was turned off. Start with the electrical breakers before turning on the switches and then readjusting the thermostat back to its desired temperature.
Air-source pumps typically last about 10-20 years, with 15 years being the average lifespan. Meanwhile, with proper maintenance, geothermal heat pumps often last 20-25 years.
Gas furnaces are optimal for areas experiencing prolonged cold weather. Electric furnaces are suitable for moderate climates requiring additional heating beyond what heat pumps provide, especially in areas where natural gas or propane are not available.