Broken reversing valve: The reversing valve is the essential component of the heat pump for changing the system over from one mode to another. If the heat pump is in defrost mode, you will also need to make good use of your auxiliary heat. Signs that your heat pump is in defrost mode include: When you try to turn the a/c on it runs heat. If you notice the heat pump defrosting for an extended period of time, call a pro right away. I got the a/c to run by cycling the power a couple of times but after having to use the heat again, it is stuck again. Coronavirus Update: We care about your health and continue to service our customers safely. Have a look at how the reversing valve operates, and how a problem with it can lock your system into cooling mode. If your heat pump seems to be stuck on auxiliary heat mode and the temperatures outside are above 35 degrees, you should call the professionals at Precision Heating & Air. Another common scenario is when the thermostat calls for a three-degree temperature rise . When the user presses the “change mode” button on the device, an electrical signal is sent to the solenoid in the valve; this part activates the sliding mechanism, and then it makes sure the refrigerant passes through the valve to the desired place so it can either cool or heat depending on the selected mode. The Reversing Valve. Second, the process should only take a few minutes. Luckily, this part can be easily swapped out by a pro. Here's what's happening when your heat pump seems stuck. When this occurs the system can get stuck in ‘heating’ mode. When that happens, the heat pump will reverse the flow of refrigerant so that hot refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit (to melt the ice). Heat pumps are constructed very much like air conditioners, with one major exception: the reversing valve. If your heat pump isn’t cooling the air in your home, read on to find out why. Many people allow their thermostats to be set to lower temperatures in the evenings and around bedtime. One of those problems is becoming stuck in one mode or another. Thermostat: As the brain of your system, this component should never be overlooked. I have a heat pump that seems to be stuck in heat mode. Could this be an electrical problem or is it probably the reversing valve? Sometimes in heat pump systems, the reversing valve that switches the system from air conditioning to heating function gets stuck. The reversing valve is a 4-way valve that sits in the refrigerant line. The mechanical valve can become stuck, however, and that will trap the system in whatever mode it’s currently operating in. The defrost mode light stays on constantly: First, the heat pump shouldn’t even go into defrost mode unless the outside unit is covered in snow or ice. If your heat pump seems to be stuck in cooling mode, it’s probably because of a problem with your reversing valve. The Reversing Valve. 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