What Heat Pump Noises Are Trying to Tell You
For some homeowners, a noisy heat pump is a definite sign of trouble. However, take a moment and listen to the sounds it’s making, because they might offer you clues about what’s wrong with the unit. You don’t have to be a plumber or an expert in heating when faced with a faulty system, but it pays to be armed with some basic troubleshooting know-how when you’re waiting for the technician to arrive.
It takes a professional HVAC specialist to accurately diagnose problems and carry out repairs on a rumbling heat pump, but this doesn’t mean you have to be in the dark when the first signs of trouble appear. Our experts at Palo Alto have compiled a few of the common reasons why a heat pump may be noisier than usual, as well as some steps you can take to address these issues.
Louder Than Usual
During the wintertime, it’s normal for your plumbing to creak and make loud noises as water flows through the pipes. The same is true for heat pumps. The cold temperature tends to make the system sound louder than normal, especially when the compressors are starting to defrost themselves. There’s no need to be concerned, however, because loud humming and whooshing noises in winter are usually normal for heat pumps.
A Noisy Start
Loud taps and clicks are also normal when your heat pump is just starting up, even though they can be disconcerting if you’ve never heard a heat pump get going before. However, if these noises somehow change or if you hear sounds that normally aren’t part of how your system powers up, then it may be time to call in the professionals.
Gurgling and Buzzing Sounds
Gurgling sounds coming from your heat pump can only mean one thing: you need to top off your refrigerant. Buzzing noises can come from inadequate coolant levels. If this is the case, contact your local plumbing and heating specialists for a recharge as soon as possible.
At Palo Alto, we’re your leading provider of heat pump repair, installation and maintenance, as well as professional plumbing services. Give us a call at (650) 856-3400 or fill out our contact form to schedule a service visit and get a free quote on new heat pump installations today. We serve homeowners in Palo Alto and surrounding areas.