Heating and Air Conditioning
New Tazewell
Heating and Air Conditioning in New Tazewell

What to Do When Your Heat Pump Won’t Start: Tips from HEP Technicians

Customer Case: Silent Outdoor Unit in New Tazewell

A homeowner in [New Tazewell] noticed that, despite the thermostat calling for cooling, no air was coming from the vents and the outdoor unit was eerily quiet. With rising temperatures, they called a HEP technician to diagnose the problem.

The indoor air handler seemed normal, so the focus shifted outside.

Indoor HVAC Setup

Spotting the Issue at the Condenser

Upon inspecting the outdoor condensing unit, the HEP technician heard a faint hum but saw no fan movement. After removing the service panel, it became clear that the little cylinders responsible for jump-starting the compressor motor were worn out.

Outdoor Condenser Unit

How It Was Resolved

To restore full operation, the HEP technician swapped out both start-assist components with fresh high-quality replacements. A brief performance check confirmed the fan and compressor kicked on smoothly, and cool air began flowing through the home once again.

Run Capacitor Close-Up

The homeowner was relieved to have the heat pump back in service—just in time for summer.

5 Tips to Keep Your Heat Pump Running Smoothly

1. Listen for Unusual Sounds
Humming, clicking, or grinding often point to motor or electrical issues. If you hear something off, call a HEP technician before small problems turn into big repairs.

2. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
Leaves, grass, and toys can block airflow. Keep at least two feet of clearance on all sides and trim any nearby plants to help your system work efficiently.

3. Know Your Breaker Box
A tripped breaker can mimic a system failure. Make sure your circuit breakers are clearly labeled and easily accessible.

Labeled Breaker Panel

4. Schedule Coil and Filter Cleaning
Dirty evaporator coils and clogged filters force your system to work harder. Ask your HEP technician to clean coils and replace filters during routine service.

Clean Evaporator Coil

5. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Modern thermostats help you track usage, detect faults, and set custom schedules for energy savings and comfort.

Digital Thermostat Display

Routine check-ups by a qualified HEP technician can catch issues like failing start-assist parts before a breakdown. For more on professional Heating and Air Conditioning in New Tazewell, get in touch today and keep your home comfortable year-round.

Published on September 16, 2025