What does a bad reversing valve sound like?

Sometimes customers complain of a "buzzing" noise coming from the outdoor unit, even when it's not running. This is usually caused by the reversing valve solenoid coil. It's usually a low voltage device (24 volts) and some are just louder than others - and in most cases, this is normal.

How do you know if your reversing valve is bad?

What does a reversing valve sound like?

Near the beginning & end of a heat pump defrost-cycle — a sound is heard that's similar to a large truck's “air brakes” (a loud “pssssssst”) happens. This is the sound of the Refrigerant Reversing-Valve (reversing the refrigerant's flow).

How do I know if my compressor or reversing valve is bad?

If the compressor end gets very hot very fast, the compressor is at fault. If the reversing valve gets very hot very fast, the problem is the reversing valve.

Is there a way to unstick a reversing valve?

The reversing valve is a pilot operated valve and requires a pressure differential to operate. If you suspect the valve is stuck, take a soft object like the plastic handle of your screwdriver and tap on either side of the valve body. This may free the valve.

Heat pump reversing valve noise

What is the most common problem with reversing valves?

One of the most common problems that can develop with a reversing valve is that is can get stuck. It may become stuck in a specific mode or in between modes.

How much does a reversing valve cost?

This typically means the reversing valve needs to be replaced, which averages $450-$600. This typically means the reversing valve needs to be replaced, which averages $450-$600. A basic thermostat costs $40-$70, while a programmable thermostat 1 averages $80-$150.

Why does my heat pump make a whooshing sound?

The whooshing sound is that valve reversing to defrost the heat exchanger, which essentially means entering cooling mode temporarily. The refrigerant will run backwards in this mode, so the heat pump will essentially be pulling the hot air out of your home.

Why is my central air making a hissing sound?

A hissing noise coming from your HVAC system is not something to be overlooked. Among the possible causes are leaky refrigerant lines, an internal valve leak or a serious problem with your compressor. If the hissing noise is coming from your ducts, then you may have leaky air ducts.

Why is my heating unit making a loud noise?

Loud noises from your indoor air unit are usually due to your system aging or being installed incorrectly. This unit might be due for repairs or replacement if it's an older system. A clicking sound could mean damaged fans, belts, pistons, valve, rod, thermostat, or crankshaft.

Why do reversing valves stick?

The most common reason for a reversing valve getting stuck is due to a bad solenoid. The solenoid is responsible for switching the process from heating to cooling and vice versa. A broken solenoid is not going to be able to switch from one mode to the other, essentially causing your reversing valve to get stuck.

What makes the reversing valve shift?

A reversing valve operates by a pressure difference inside a metal tube, controlled by a solenoid. The pressure change moves a slider through the tube, and this slide straddles two of three tube openings.

Why is my heat pump blowing cold air?

Your Heat Pump May Be In Defrost Mode

As heat is released through the outdoor unit, it melts ice formations that would have been difficult or damaging to remove manually. Defrost mode is essentially the same as cooling mode, therefore it is likely your heat pump will blow cool air while in this mode.

How many ohms should a reversing valve have?

A. The resistance should be zero ohms.

How often do heat pumps need to be recharged?

With regular maintenance, your heat pump should operate efficiently for 10 to 20 years. The refrigerant in your unit should not need to be charged or “topped off” unless a leak is detected. Heat pump maintenance should be performed twice a year: in the spring and fall.

What is a reversing valve on a heat pump?

In a heat pump, a reversing valve controls the direction of the flow of refrigerant. Refrigerant is the chemical mixture that allows for the heat exchange to occur.

Does a heat pump make noise?

Both the indoor and outdoor components of a heat pump make some noise. On average, most modern heat pump outdoor units have a sound rating around 60 decibels, equivalent to a moderate rainfall or normal conversation. Some ultra-quiet models attain lower sound level ratings.

Why is my heat pump stuck in heat mode?

If your heat pump is stuck in heating or cooling mode, it means one of two things. One, the slide is stuck in the valve and won't move, or two, the solenoid has lost its charge and is unable to move the slide. If the slide is stuck, it can be fixed by opening up the valve and manually freeing it.

Why is my heat pump not cooling?

Make sure the air filter is clean. If your heat pump is blowing cold air at a low volume and your home is taking a long time to cool, your refrigerant charge may be off. Or the coils in your evaporator may need to be cleaned. Both issues can be solved with a yearly tune up of your heat pump.