Heat Pump Fan Not Spinning: What Should I Do?

Choosing whether to invest in a heat pump for your residence is not a straightforward decision. Some claim this appliance has subpar heating and cooling power to combat the 28-degree winter lows and 90-degree summer highs in Boiling Springs, SC. Others feel it creates a comfortable atmosphere without wasting energy, perfect for lowering utility bills.

One thing that should never be up for debate is a heat pump's functionality. If something's off about your unit, the likely culprit is the heat pump fan not spinning. 

What causes this issue, and what should you do to resolve it? Below, we’ll uncover the common causes and whether you should contact Smooth Sailing Heating & Cooling for Boiling Springs’ reliable heating maintenance, repairs, and replacements. 

Why Is the Compressor Functioning, But Not the Fan?

Heat pump owners can tell when their unit is functioning. The fan should be spinning in the outdoor unit, and the compressor should make a light humming noise upon startup. If the compressor powers on but the fan refuses to budge, you have a fan or motor issue. 

Inspect the fan compartment by turning the power off and removing the top lid of the outer heat pump cabinet. If this compartment rests below a tree or under your gutters, there’s a good chance that leaves, a tree limb, or even a small animal has lodged itself between the blades. Simply remove the culprit and turn on the power to test the fan.

If there's no debris in the compartment, turn the power back on and use a stick to nudge the blades. Do NOT use your fingers since the blades are fast and sharp. Even if the fan starts spinning again, you have a failing motor needing a professional repair or replacement. 

Whether you check it out yourself or call an expert, turn off your unit immediately after noticing your heat pump fan not spinning. You'll prevent fan motor and compressor deterioration. 

Why Are the Fan Blades Moving Slower Than Usual?

If your fan blades rotate slower, any of the above concerns can limit its efficiency, including a declining capacitor or fan motor. If an obstruction isn’t the concern, one or more unit parts are likely on their last legs. Have an HVAC technician run and examine your unit to uncover the faulty part and determine the optimal solution. 

Before calling your local experts, consider your unit type. If you have a variable-capacity or two-stage heat pump, your unit has a wide range of running capacity, sometimes running as low as 40% or 60%. When it runs at about a 50% visibly reduced speed, it's likely behaving normally, but call a specialist if you're unsure.

Why Does the Entire System Refuse to Start? 

If your entire unit refuses to power on, you may not necessarily have a unit problem but a fan issue.

First, check the breaker panel to ensure your circuit breaker is in the “on” position. If it's off, you may have forgotten to turn it back on after previous electrical work. If the breaker's in the middle, it may have tripped.

After turning the breaker on and off again, check that the air handler is also set to “on.” If that measure doesn’t work, check that the thermostat is on and working. If you've set the thermostat lower for the winter months, or higher for the summer, the unit won’t release the correct controlled air. As a result, the system believes it doesn’t need to power on to reach your desired temperature. 

Let’s say you've set everything correctly and in working condition. The compressor contractor may be worn, refusing to power the compressor and condenser fan. A simple professional repair could solve this problem, but if a faulty compressor is behind your heat pump fan not spinning, you might need to obtain a replacement part.

The All-In-One Solution, No Matter the Issue 

While a heat pump doesn’t have as many parts as a furnace or air conditioner, several things can still go wrong with it. Each concern requires a unique repair approach, depending on the model and home. The one solution that consistently works is for you to call Smooth Sailing Heating & Cooling. 

Our family-owned veteran team provides knowledgeable, friendly, and high-quality services with top workmanship, tools, and equipment. When problems leave your heat pump fan not spinning, read our heat pump maintenance checklist or call (864) 633-3313 for prompt HVAC assistance in Boiling Springs, SC!