What to Do When Your Heat Pump Won't Turn On in Andover

When your heat pump won’t turn on, it can feel like everything comes to a stop, especially during a stretch of hot or humid weather in Andover. You rely on your system to keep your home comfortable, and when it isn’t responding, frustration sets in fast. Unfortunately, it’s a common issue that many homeowners face from time to time. You might hear silence when the thermostat clicks on, or maybe the system tries to start and stops immediately. Either way, no airflow means no relief.

This kind of situation doesn’t always mean the system has failed. There are practical reasons a heat pump won’t turn on, and sometimes, it's a simple issue that can be resolved faster than expected. The key is to understand the possible causes and know which warning signs need immediate attention. Below are some of the most common reasons your system may be having trouble and what steps you can take to check for problems safely.

Understanding Common Reasons Why Your Heat Pump Might Not Turn On

When a heat pump in Andover won’t start, the issue usually falls into three main categories: power supply, thermostat settings, or internal components.

The first place to look is the power source. Check that your system is plugged in and inspect the circuit breaker panel. If the breaker for your heat pump has tripped, you may be able to reset it. A flipped breaker doesn’t always mean something big is wrong, but if it keeps happening, it could be a sign of a more serious electrical issue. Do not continue to reset it frequently, especially if your system keeps shutting down.

The thermostat is another common culprit. If the settings are wrong or the unit’s batteries are low, the system may not receive the signal to turn on. Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If your thermostat has a screen and it’s blank or flickering, it could be malfunctioning.

Then there are internal components such as capacitors, contactors, or fuses. These parts help activate the motors and transfer current throughout the system. If just one of them fails, the heat pump will not start. These components are usually located behind sealed panels and are not easily accessible. If you suspect something inside the unit is faulty, let our technicians check it out.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before reaching out for service, there are a few safe steps you can take at home to narrow down what’s going on. These checks do not require tools or advanced knowledge and may help get your system running again.

1. Inspect the outside and inside units

- Look for disconnected wiring, debris around the unit, or dirt buildup on the coils

- Check if the outdoor fan is spinning or if the inside unit is making any sound

- Make sure the unit isn’t blocked by yard waste or furniture

2. Try resetting the system

- Locate the reset button, often found on the outdoor unit

- Turn the thermostat off for a few minutes

- Flip the main power off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on

- Restore thermostat power and check for a response

3. Check the air filters

- A clogged filter reduces airflow and may cause the system to shut down

- Remove the existing filter to inspect for dirt or airflow blockage

- Replace it with a new filter that fits your system

These steps focus on airflow, communication, and power. If those key items are addressed and the system still won’t turn on, it’s likely there is an internal issue that needs professional service. One homeowner in Andover recently discovered their non-functioning heat pump was due to a tripped outdoor disconnect switch after a storm. It was an easy fix, but only because the issue was identified quickly. Taking the time to check these basic areas can help point technicians in the right direction when it's time to call.

When to Call for Professional Help

Some heat pump issues go beyond simple checks and need more than a reset or filter change. If your system stays off after you've completed basic steps or starts making unusual noises when trying to start, calling our technicians is recommended. This is especially true if the breaker continues to trip, the outside unit is frozen, or there are electrical burning smells. Delaying service can lead to more damage and higher repair costs.

Our technicians do more than just replace parts. They look for the root cause. For example, if a capacitor failed due to a voltage issue, they will identify that instead of only replacing the component. They are trained to examine the entire system, including airflow, thermostat settings, and refrigerant levels. If your system includes both heating and cooling functions, the thermostat will be checked for proper signaling between modes.

A typical service visit may include:

- Testing incoming power at the disconnect and panel

- Inspecting and testing capacitors, contactors, and other electrical components

- Evaluating the thermostat and all wiring connections

- Checking refrigerant levels and looking for possible leaks

- Confirming that motors in the blower and compressor are working properly

These steps help isolate root problems instead of just resolving surface-level symptoms. If the unit is showing its age or no longer operating efficiently, our technicians can review your repair options or help you plan for a system upgrade.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Issues

Once your heat pump is back on, it’s a good time to think about long-term care. No system lasts forever, but keeping it clean and maintained can help prevent unexpected problems.

Small habits can protect your system:

- Replace the air filter every 1 to 3 months, based on system use and indoor conditions

- Keep the area around the outdoor unit clear of leaves, weeds, and grass

- Pay attention to unusual sounds or long run times and report these signs early

- Monitor your utility bill for sudden increases, which may point to reduced performance

Beyond at-home checks, schedule seasonal inspections with trained technicians. Most homeowners in Andover benefit from two inspections per year: once before the cooling season, and once before heating season if applicable. During these visits, our technicians clean the system, check safety controls, inspect for damage, and test operating efficiency. Making small adjustments during these checkups helps reduce unexpected breakdowns during heatwaves.

If your heat pump seems to run longer than normal or rooms feel uneven in temperature, these are signs that something may be off. Don’t wait for a full system failure. Keep track of changes in comfort to catch smaller problems before they grow.

Keeping Your Andover Home Comfortable with Reliable Heat Pump Service

Comfort during hot summer months in Andover depends on having a reliable cooling system. A day without air conditioning can quickly turn your home unpleasant. That’s why staying on top of repairs and maintenance makes a real difference.

Leaving small issues unresolved can cause bigger failures. Replacing a failing capacitor on time protects the compressor from strain. Addressing minor wear helps maintain airflow, improves performance, and extends the life of your unit. Ongoing service isn’t just about fixing something today. It’s also about protecting your home’s comfort for the future.

Working with technicians experienced in heat pump repair in Andover gives you the confidence your system will be handled properly. Whether your issue is sudden or has been building over time, our technicians focus on finding lasting solutions. Accurate diagnostics, clear communication, and dependable repair work mean you can return to a comfortable home faster, with fewer surprises ahead.

For reliable service and long-term comfort in Andover, addressing issues promptly can make all the difference. If your system continues to struggle after basic troubleshooting, our technicians at MJB Heating & Cooling are here to provide in-depth support. By staying ahead of potential problems with consistent maintenance and timely inspections, you can avoid costly breakdowns and ensure smooth operation through the warmer months. Learn more about expert heat pump repair in Andover backed by trusted local professionals. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.