Heat pumps are an alternative to a traditional heating and cooling system. A heat pump can do the work of an air conditioner and a furnace in one compact unit. If you’ve been watching your heat pump and you noticed that its fan isn’t spinning, it could be a clue to underlying issues with your heat pump.

Edwards Royal Comfort is available 24/7 for your emergency heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. We are proud to maintain three convenient locations to help service a large area of customers. 

When Should the Fan Run on My Heat Pump?

A heat pump system is composed of an outside unit and an air handling unit inside. You should notice that your Heat Pump Fan Is Not Spinning when there is no air coming from your air handling unit or the unit is off. These two units work in tandem. The fan on your unit should spin when you want air in your house and shouldn’t spin when the temperature of your house matches the thermostat setting.

Heat pumps take in hot air from the outside and cool it before blowing it into your home. When in reverse, heat energy is absorbed from the outside unit by a cool liquid refrigerant, turning it into gas. Then pressure is applied to the cold gas, turning it into a hot gas. The hot gas is then cooled in the indoor unit by passing air. 

Why is My Heat Pump Fan Not Spinning When the Unit Is On?

If you find that your heat pump is on but the fan isn’t spinning, there could be a few reasons for this. Outside debris can get into the system and clog it. It is important to have a clear area around your heat pump year-round. If you see something that is lodged in your heat pump fan, turn off the power and then see if you can dislodge it with a tool or a stick. Never stick your fingers in a fan. 

Sometimes you can push-start your fan by giving the blades a push. If that works, that could be a sign that your fan motor is failing and will need to be replaced soon. If your fan does not move with a push, then you should have it replaced immediately. Do not run your heat pump without a working fan as that could cause damage to the compressor. A damaged compressor can lead to a very costly repair bill or replacement of the entire system. 

Should My Heat Pump’s Outdoor Unit Run During Cold Weather?

If you’ve only experienced a house that is cooled by an air conditioning unit, then you may find it odd that your heat pump fan is running in cold weather. That is normal, and your heat pump fan should be spinning.  If you find your fan does not stop spinning, it could be a setting on your air handler or a blower malfunction, but it is common for fans to run continuously in the winter. Heat pumps are ideal for warmer climates that don’t get frigid temperatures in the winter. Your heat pump will work harder to bring in more air, making it less efficient than a traditional furnace. For this reason, some heat pump owners also have a backup heating system for the winter. 

The fan in your heat pump is also used to defrost your heat pump.  If you ever hear your heat pump and your air handler working – but your heat pump fan isn’t spinning even in cold weather – this could be a sign there is a problem. 

Contact Edward Royal Comfort to Solve Your Heat Pump Problems Today

No matter the weather, your heat pump should be working year-round. And no matter the season, Edwards Royal Comfort is available to solve your heat pump problems. Whether your Heat Pump Fan Is Not Spinning or your fan is running constantly, make a service appointment with Edwards Royal Comfort.