Heat pumps are a great fit for San Diego’s mild winters, but even here, they can struggle when temperatures dip—especially in the early mornings or cooler nights. If your heat pump isn’t keeping up, here are the most common causes and easy fixes.
1. It’s Just Working Harder
Heat pumps pull warmth from the outdoor air. The colder it is outside, the harder they have to work.
Fix: Avoid big thermostat jumps and give the system time to heat gradually.
2. Dirty or Old Air Filters
A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes your system feel like it’s not heating enough.
Fix: Replace filters every 1–3 months in winter.
3. Outdoor Unit Needs Attention
If the outdoor condenser is blocked by leaves, dirt, or low refrigerant, your heat pump can’t pull enough heat from outside.
Fix: Clear debris and schedule a check if performance doesn’t improve.
4. Defrost Mode Kicks In
On cool, moist mornings, your heat pump may briefly switch to defrost mode. A short drop in heating is normal, but frequent cycles may mean it needs maintenance.
5. Thermostat Settings Are Off
Incorrect thermostat settings can impact performance or trigger backup heat unnecessarily.
Fix: Double-check your programming. A smart thermostat can help manage efficiency automatically.
A Quick Tune-Up Goes a Long Way
Seasonal maintenance helps:
- Improve heating output
- Boost efficiency
- Prevent surprise breakdowns
If your heat pump isn’t keeping up this winter, a quick inspection or tune-up can get your system running smoothly again.
