Valparaiso Heat Pump Not Cooling? 5 Common HVAC Fixes

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

Heat pump not cooling your home, or not cooling enough? When rooms feel stuffy, bills spike, and the thermostat never catches up, you need fast answers. Below are the most common reasons your heat pump underperforms in summer, how to troubleshoot safely, and when to call Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Our Chesterton team restores comfort quickly with 24/7 emergency repair, clear estimates, and expert guidance on repair or replacement.

1) Incorrect thermostat or mode settings

Start with the simplest fix. Make sure the thermostat is set to Cool and Auto, not Heat or On. If the fan is set to On, it will blow air constantly, even when the heat pump is not cooling, which can feel like warm or room-temperature air.

• Verify the cooling setpoint is at least 3 degrees below the current indoor temperature.
• Check for an active schedule that overrides your manual setting.
• Replace thermostat batteries if the display is dim or unresponsive.

Smart tip: If you recently switched from heating to cooling, your system may have a short delay to protect the compressor. Give it up to 5 minutes to engage.

If the thermostat is correct and cooling still will not start, the issue is in the equipment or airflow.

2) Dirty filter or blocked airflow

Poor airflow cripples cooling performance. A clogged filter, closed supply registers, or a blocked outdoor unit reduces the heat pump’s ability to move heat outside.

• Inspect the return filter. If it is gray or matted, replace it. Most homes need a fresh filter every 1 to 3 months.
• Open all supply registers and keep at least 12 inches of clearance around them.
• Outside, remove leaves, cottonwood, and grass clippings from the condenser fins. Maintain 2 feet of clearance on all sides.

When airflow is restricted, coils can get too cold and frost over, which further reduces cooling. If you see ice, turn the system to Off and the fan to On for 60 minutes to thaw, then restore to Cool and Auto. If it freezes again, you likely have a deeper issue that needs a technician.

Local insight: Northwest Indiana’s lake-effect humidity makes dirt and pollen cling to fins and filters. Seasonal cleanings are not optional here if you want reliable cooling.

3) Low refrigerant from a leak

Heat pumps do not use up refrigerant. If levels are low, there is a leak. Symptoms include weak airflow that is not cold, longer run times, ice on the outdoor or indoor coil, and hissing sounds.

• Do not attempt to top off refrigerant yourself. It requires EPA-certified handling and precise charging by superheat or subcool.
• A pro will test for leaks, repair the line set or coil as needed, and recharge to the manufacturer spec.

Hard fact: Most heat pumps last 10 to 15 years in our region. Refrigerant leaks often show up as systems age, especially on coils exposed to corrosion. Proper repair and charging can restore cooling efficiency and protect the compressor.

4) Frozen outdoor unit or indoor coil

Ice is a symptom, not a cause. It usually points to airflow problems or low refrigerant, but it can also result from failed defrost controls or sensors.

• If you see frost on the outdoor unit in summer, shut the system off immediately to avoid compressor damage.
• After thawing, a technician will check airflow, filters, blower speed, refrigerant levels, and the defrost control board.

If the unit repeatedly ices up, running it can overheat the compressor and lead to a much more expensive repair. Fast diagnosis is the safest path.

5) Reversing valve, compressor, or electrical faults

Your reversing valve switches the system between heating and cooling. If it sticks or the solenoid fails, the unit may run but not cool. Electrical issues such as failed capacitors, contactors, or control boards can also stop the outdoor unit from engaging.

Signs to watch for:

1. Outdoor fan runs but no cool air inside.
2. Frequent clicking or short cycling.
3. Tripped breaker or burnt electrical odor.

These faults require professional testing with meters and manufacturer procedures. Our certified techs use modern diagnostic tools to pinpoint failures quickly and prevent repeat issues.

6) Ductwork losses and zoning problems

Even a healthy heat pump cannot cool well if cold air never reaches the rooms. Leaky or crushed ducts, disconnected runs, and poor zoning waste cooling and inflate energy bills.

• Look for rooms that are hot while others are fine.
• Inspect visible duct runs in basements or attics for disconnections or gaps.
• Avoid closing more than one or two registers. Excess static pressure can cause icing and motor stress.

For older homes in Valparaiso, Portage, and Hobart, we often find original flex duct with significant leakage. A duct repair and air balance can make a strong system feel brand new.

7) Mini-split specifics for ductless systems

Ductless heads need clear airflow to cool properly. Dirty return screens, blocked vanes, and low refrigerant will all show up as lukewarm air.

• Clean the washable filters monthly during peak season.
• Keep 3 feet of clearance in front of each indoor head.
• If error codes appear on the wall cassette, note the code for your technician.

Mini-splits are efficient, but they are sensitive to maintenance. Routine cleanings and correct refrigerant charge are key to quiet, cold operation.

8) When to repair vs replace

Not every cooling problem means a new system, but some scenarios point to replacement as the smarter move.

Consider replacement when:

1. The system is 10 to 15 years old and has a history of costly repairs.
2. The compressor or coil has failed and is out of warranty.
3. You have rising energy bills and inconsistent comfort across rooms.

Newer heat pumps with SEER2 and HSPF ratings tuned to your home can lower energy costs and improve dehumidification. Our team evaluates your existing equipment, measures your home, and right-sizes capacity so you are not over or undersized. We remove old equipment, install the new system with safety protocols, and verify performance with a complete start-up test.

9) Simple homeowner fixes before you call

Do these safe checks first. If cooling does not improve, schedule service.

• Set thermostat to Cool and Auto. Lower the setpoint by at least 3 degrees.
• Replace or wash the air filter.
• Clear debris and vegetation around the outdoor unit.
• Open supply registers and confirm returns are not blocked by furniture or rugs.
• Check the breaker for the air handler and outdoor unit. Reset once if tripped.

If you hear grinding, smell burnt electrical, or see ice, turn the system off and call for service. Running it can turn a small repair into a major one.

10) Prevent breakdowns with proven maintenance

Routine tune-ups keep heat pumps efficient and catch small issues early. In Chesterton’s climate, that means preparing for humidity swings in summer and chilly shoulder seasons.

Hard facts you can use:

• Recommended tune-up cadence: twice per year, once in spring and once in fall.
• Our maintenance checklist covers filter replacement, tightening electrical connections, refrigerant checks, outdoor unit cleaning, thermostat calibration, lubrication, and airflow inspections.

Plan benefits typically include first-in-line scheduling for urgent service and discounts on repairs and parts. That translates to fewer surprises, longer equipment life, and steadier bills.

11) Why local expertise matters in Northwest Indiana

Lake-effect humidity, cottonwood season, and quick temperature swings put extra strain on heat pumps from Porter to Kouts and Beverly Shores. We select and set up equipment with local conditions in mind, including coil coatings, proper condensate management, and airflow settings that improve dehumidification without short cycling.

As a full-service provider, we install, repair, and maintain air-source and ductless mini-split systems, and we stand behind the work with dependable warranties and financing options. Expect upfront estimates, plain-language findings, and minimal disruption during any install or repair.

12) Ready for fast, professional help?

If your heat pump still is not cooling, we can be at your door quickly, day or night. Our certified technicians use modern diagnostics to solve problems right the first time. We will explain options clearly and help you decide whether repair or replacement delivers the best long-term value for your home and budget.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Bo was early, did an excellent job tuning up the furnace. Went beyond the strictures of the job and unbent the grill on my heat pump... Did his job in a professional manner as well as politely. I’ve used Summers for years, always the same, quality work at a fair price." –SR P., Chesterton

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my heat pump running but not blowing cold air?

Incorrect thermostat settings, a dirty filter, or a stuck reversing valve can stop cooling. Low refrigerant from a leak is also common. Try basic checks first, then schedule a professional diagnostic if cooling does not return.

How often should a heat pump be serviced?

Twice per year. Schedule one tune-up in spring before cooling season and one in fall before heating begins. Regular service improves efficiency, reliability, and system lifespan.

Do mini-split heat pumps need different maintenance?

They need similar care but require more frequent filter cleanings. Keep indoor heads clear, wash the screens monthly during peak use, and have a pro check refrigerant and electrical annually.

When should I consider replacing instead of repairing?

If your unit is 10 to 15 years old, has a failed compressor or coil, or needs frequent costly repairs, replacement may cost less long term. A right-sized, high-efficiency system can cut bills and improve comfort.

Is it safe to add refrigerant without fixing a leak?

No. Refrigerant does not get used up. Adding charge without repairing the leak is wasteful, can damage the compressor, and may violate regulations. A certified technician should locate and fix the leak first.

Conclusion

A heat pump that is not cooling usually comes down to settings, airflow, refrigerant issues, or a control failure. Address the simple items, then call a pro before small problems escalate. For trusted help in Chesterton and Northwest Indiana, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling restores comfort fast.

Call or Schedule Today

• Call: (219) 797-6122
• Schedule online: https://www.summersphc.com/chesterton/

We offer 24/7 emergency service, clear pricing, financing options, and dependable warranties to protect your home and budget.

Get Your Home Cool Again Today

Still dealing with a heat pump not cooling in Chesterton, Portage, Valparaiso, or Hobart? Call Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling at (219) 797-6122 or book at https://www.summersphc.com/chesterton/. A certified technician will inspect, diagnose, and get your system back to peak performance. Same-day service available in most cases.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

For more than 40 years, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling has helped Northwest Indiana homeowners stay comfortable in every season. Our Chesterton team is fully licensed, bonded, and insured, with technicians who complete continuous training and use modern diagnostic tools. We service air-source and ductless mini-split heat pumps, offer same-day repairs and 24/7 emergency response, and provide clear, upfront pricing. Expect local insight for lake-effect humidity, dependable warranties, and financing options that fit your budget. We stand behind our work and strive to match or beat competitors’ prices while delivering friendly, on-time service every visit.