Heat Pump Repair & Installation in Corpus Christi, TX

How a heat pump works

A heat pump is an air conditioner that can run in reverse. In summer it moves heat from inside the house to outdoors, exactly like a central AC. In winter a reversing valve flips the flow, and it pulls heat from the outdoor air and moves it inside. Because it moves heat rather than making it, a heat pump uses much less electricity to heat than electric resistance heat strips do, as long as it is not extremely cold outside.

Why heat pumps suit Corpus Christi

Under NWS normals, Corpus Christi's coldest month still averages highs in the upper 60s and lows in the upper 40s (National Weather Service Corpus Christi, Local Climate (1991–2020 normals)). That is ideal territory for a heat pump: it can heat efficiently nearly every winter day, with backup heat strips covering the occasional hard freeze. If your current system is an AC with heat strips, a heat pump of similar size usually costs about the same to operate in summer and noticeably less in winter.

Efficiency ratings

Heat pumps are rated for cooling (SEER2) and heating (HSPF2). Since January 1, 2023, the national minimum for split-system heat pumps is 14.3 SEER2 and 7.5 HSPF2 (U.S. Department of Energy, 2023 Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Standards FAQ). Like new air conditioners, new heat pumps use the newer refrigerants, such as R-454B or R-32 (EPA, Technology Transitions HFC Restrictions by Sector).

Common heat pump problems

Stuck in one mode

If the system cools but will not heat, or blows cool air in heat mode, the reversing valve or its solenoid may have failed, or the thermostat may be wired or set up wrong for a heat pump.

Defrost problems

In cold, damp weather, frost forms on the outdoor coil. The heat pump periodically switches into defrost to melt it, and you may see steam and hear a whoosh. That is normal. A unit that stays encased in ice, or defrosts constantly, has a defrost control, sensor or airflow problem.

Backup heat running too much

Thermostats show "aux" or "emergency" heat when the heat strips are on. If they run constantly in mild weather, the heat pump itself may not be doing its job, and the electric bill will show it.

The same problems as any AC

Capacitors, contactors, fan motors, refrigerant leaks, clogged condensate drains and salt-corroded coils affect heat pumps just like air conditioners, and since a heat pump runs year-round, its parts get more hours. See AC repair.

Mini-splits

Ductless mini-split heat pumps are a good fit for additions, converted garages, workshops and older homes without ductwork. Each indoor head serves one room or zone, and they are efficient for both cooling and heating. Near the coast, ask about corrosion protection for the outdoor unit.

Questions to ask

• What are the SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings, and is the combination AHRI-rated?
• How much backup heat is included, and how will the thermostat control it?
• Will the existing ducts handle the airflow?
• What corrosion protection is available for the outdoor unit?

Related guides

• Should You Repair or Replace Your AC in Corpus Christi?

Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, 2023 Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Standards FAQ; National Weather Service Corpus Christi, Local Climate (1991–2020 normals); EPA, Technology Transitions HFC Restrictions by Sector.