Why Is Air Conditioner Heat Mode Not Working? (Solved!)

By
Kimberly Crawford

Last Updated on April 8, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford

During winter months, it is essential to have a functioning heat mode in your air conditioner. When heat mode is not working properly, the warm temperatures of your home can become uncomfortable and expensive to fix.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of having a properly functioning air conditioner heat mode, as well as some of the common issues that can cause heat mode malfunction.

With this knowledge, you will be better equipped to troubleshoot and repair your air conditioner’s heating capabilities.

What Is The Heating Mode In Air Conditioner?

The heating mode in an air conditioner is what allows the unit to provide heat instead of just cooling. Most modern air conditioners have a switch or button that can be used to toggle between cooling and heating modes.

In cooling mode, the refrigerant inside the air conditioner absorbs the heat from the room and releases it outdoors; in heating mode, the process is reversed, and refrigerant absorbs heat from outdoors and releases it indoors.

This allows an air conditioner to provide both cooling and heating capabilities in one unit. Many air conditioners also have additional features such as energy-saving modes and timers that allow users to customize their cooling/heating needs.

Reasons Why Air conditioner heat mode not working

ac heat mode

1. Thermostat Issues

Incorrect temperature settings

Check the current thermostat setting to make sure it is set to heat mode and that you have chosen a temperature that is higher than the current room temperature.

Also, check for any adjustments that may affect the heating configuration.

Dead batteries

If your thermostat is battery powered, you may need to replace the batteries.

Calibration problems

If your thermostat has been recently installed or relocated, it may need to be recalibrated in order for the heat mode to work properly.

2. External Unit Problems

Blocked vents

Check the outdoor unit to make sure that the airflow isn’t blocked by any obstacles or debris.

Debris buildup

Dirty coils can cause the heat mode to not work properly, so raise the grille and clean away dirt, leaves, and other debris from around and on top of the outdoor unit.

Frozen coils

If the coils are frozen, turn off the power to the unit and allow them to thaw. Once the coils have melted, you can reset the system by turning it back on.

3. Internal Unit Problems

Dirty filters

Check and clean or replace any dirty air filters that may be blocking airflow through your system.

Faulty wiring

If any wires are loose or damaged, this can cause the heat mode to malfunction. Check all of the wiring in your system and replace any that appear worn or frayed.

Blown fuses

If a fuse has blown, it will need to be replaced before you can use the heat mode again. Refer to the user manual for your system for instructions on how to replace any blown fuses.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify the problem and make necessary repairs to get your air conditioner’s heat mode functioning properly again. If the issue persists, contact a professional technician to help diagnose and resolve the issue.

Troubleshooting Tips: Fixing Minor Issues

A. Checking and adjusting thermostat settings:

1. Check the current settings of your thermostat to ensure it is set to heat mode, and that you have chosen a temperature higher than the room temperature.

2. Make sure any adjustments or changes made to the thermostat are in line with what is necessary for the heat mode to work.

B. Replacing batteries in the thermostat:

1. If your thermostat is battery-powered, check and replace any dead or dying batteries as soon as possible to get the heat mode working again.

C. Cleaning and unblocking external vents:

1. Inspect the outdoor unit of your air conditioner to ensure that airflow is not blocked by any obstacles or debris.

2. Clear away any dirt, leaves, or other debris that may be present around and on top of the unit.

D. Clearing debris from the external unit:

1. Raise the grille of the outdoor unit and remove any dirt, leaves, or other debris that may be present.

E. Defrosting frozen coils:

1. If your AC’s coils are frozen, turn off the power to the unit and allow them to thaw.

2. Once the coils have melted, you can reset the system by turning it back on.

F. Cleaning or replacing dirty filters:

1. Check the air filters to make sure they are not blocking airflow through your system, and clean or replace them as necessary.

G. Checking and replacing blown fuses:

1. Inspect all of the wiring in your system to ensure none of the fuses are blown.

2. Refer to the user manual for instructions on how to replace any blown fuses.

When to Call a Professional

If your air conditioner is not working properly and you are unable to resolve the issue yourself, it may be time to call a professional.

Issues that persist or recur, or that require specific repairs such as wiring or compressor work, may necessitate the assistance of an experienced technician.

Regular maintenance by a certified technician can also help prevent future problems.

Professional technicians can help you identify the specific cause of the issue and make necessary repairs to get your air conditioner running again.

Related:

How To Prevent Air Conditioner Heat Mode From Failing?

To prevent your air conditioner heat mode from failing, it is important to regularly maintain your unit. Routine maintenance and inspection can help identify potential problems before they become bigger issues. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your air conditioner’s heat mode will stay in working order:

1. Inspect the Condenser Coil: The condenser coil is a key component of your air conditioner and needs to be regularly checked to make sure that it isn’t blocked or clogged. If there is blockage, it will decrease the efficiency of your system and could lead to heat mode failure.

2. Clean the Filter: Make sure to check and clean your air filter regularly. A clogged filter prevents the system from running efficiently and effectively, potentially leading to heat mode failure.

3. Check the Refrigerant Levels: You should make sure that your refrigerant levels are at the correct level for optimal performance. If not, it can cause a variety of problems with your air conditioner, including heat mode failure.

4. Lubricate Moving Parts: Make sure to oil moving parts in the system such as motors and fans to ensure they run efficiently and don’t cause any problems with your air conditioner, including heat mode failure.

5. Inspect Electrical Components: Check all electrical components of your air conditioner and make sure that they are in good working order. Electrical problems can cause a variety of issues with your system, including heat mode failure.

Related: 15 Air Conditioner Brands to Avoid and 12 Best Brands to Consider

Conclusion

In conclusion, troubleshooting a non-working heat mode on an air conditioner requires careful attention to all its components and settings. It is important to ensure that your home is comfortable and energy efficient.

If the issue persists or you feel overwhelmed, it may be best to call in a professional for help. Regular maintenance can also assist in keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently and avoiding expensive repair bills.

With the right approach and help, you should be able to solve any issues with your air conditioner’s heat mode and enjoy a comfortable environment in your home.