Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have enjoyed a rapid rise in popularity across the UK over the past few years, providing a greener and more cost-effective alternative to other heating systems.
Generally speaking, they are a very reliable solution too. However, problems may surface from time to time. Failure to reach the set temperature is one of the most common and frustrating.
If your air source heat pump isn’t reaching the set temperature with consistent results, it’s imperative that you identify and rectify the source of the problems right away.
Some can be treated with simple DIY fixes while others require professional air source heat pump servicing and repairs. Here’s all you need to know about restoring your unit to perfect condition.
Signs Your Air Source Heat Pump Isn’t Reaching the Set Temperature
Before booking heat pump servicing and repairs, homeowners must first look for the signs that the unit is failing to reach the desired temperature. The most common signs are;
- The air source heat pump runs continually and never seems to shut off after reaching the desired temperature.
- Your unit blows out cold or lukewarm air rather than hot hair while ice forms on the outside unit.
- The control panel of your home heating system shows error messages or warning codes and light indicators.
- Energy bills are significantly higher than expected since completing the air source heat pump installation.
ASHPs also provide hot water. So, you may also notice a change in water temperatures. When any of these symptoms surface, the next steps are to investigate the potential reasons before completing any necessary DIY fixes or booking air source heat pump servicing.
Reasons Why Your Air Source Heat Pump Isn’t Reaching the Set Temperature
Understanding the underlying reason for inconsistent performance levels is essential if you want to find the right fix. Some of the most common issues are as follows:
Insufficient Insulation
Air source heat pumps work by transferring heat from outside the home. Unfortunately, if the property suffers from significant heat loss, the heating system will struggle to reach the desired temperature. Even if it does, temperatures quickly fall as heat escapes through the walls, windows, and roof.
In this instance, you will need to manage the underlying cause of heat loss. This could mean adding foam insulation in the loft, getting double glazing, or fixing structural problems that have resulted in rapid heat loss.
Blockages
Blockages will impact performance levels and stop the heat pump from transferring heat as it intends, which translates to a low temperature. The outdoor unit could encounter blockages caused by debris or ice. You can identify this with a visual inspection and clear the blockage yourself. The supply/return vents of your indoor unit could be blocked too.
As well as ensuring that the indoor vents are unobstructed, it’s worth checking the filters. Dirty air filters are unable to perform as expected due to reduced airflow. Cleaning or replacing them could provide a quick resolution.
Control Board Or Thermostat Issues
The air source heart pump cannot reach the right temperature if it is not programmed correctly. Therefore, any faults with the control board or thermostat would prevent you from achieving the desired results. Heat pump performance reports can test for related problems.
Before this, though, you should run simple checks like confirming that the system hasn’t accidentally been switched to delay mode or out of heating mode. If there is a confirmed fault code, manufacturers can be contacted for advice.
Radiator Issues
Air source heat pumps need to transfer heat from outside to the inside via a heating device. Radiators are the most common option, and could be the source of your temperature struggles. Valves should be fully opened while it’s equally important to bleed them so that any air bubbles are effectively removed. This will translate to a far more efficient performance.
Closed valves could trick the system, meaning that it thinks the heat used is sufficient despite the thermostat confirming otherwise. On a side note, you need radiators to be left unobstructed if you actively want them to heat the space.
Incorrect Unit Choice
If the wrong air source heat pump system is in place, the harsh reality is that it simply won’t deliver the desired performance levels. This will result in low temperatures as well as wasted energy and money. If the unit installed is too small, the chances of hitting and maintaining the right temperature are slim. Worse still, the struggles will be noticeable in cold weather.
The harsh reality is that upgrading to a bigger and better system is the best solution. Remote monitoring of the existing system can confirm whether this is an issue while also guiding the decisions on which air source heat pump system should be installed to correct it.
When to Call an Air Source Heat Pump Servicing Expert
Some air source heat pump temperature faults can be treated with DIY fixes. However, several situations require professional heat pump servicing. ServiceMy can complete full diagnostics and restore the air source heat pump to full function, which includes reaching the set temperature with optimal efficiency.
You should contact a professional if any of the following are relevant to your situation;
- There is an issue with the refrigerant as this will require an expert touch to put right.
- Your air source heat pump is making strange noises, either inside or outside the home.
- The flow rate reading and flow/return rate is low, meaning a pro service is needed.
- You suspect that an undersized unit has been installed and needs replacing.
- You are not confident about making a diagnosis or completing a fix yourself.
- The air source heat pump is still in its warranty period as DIY efforts may invalidate this.
- There is an issue with the control board or air source heat pump sensors.
- The temperature is so low, leaving you with an inability to heat your home.
- You seek a professional service with a set cost and guaranteed results.
Whether your air source heat pump was installed by us or another company doesn’t matter. Service My can help.
