A problem with your heat pump can lead to a house that’s too cold or too hot. Learn the most common heat pump problems—including any weird noises—and their solutions.
How Do I Know If I Have a Heat Pump? 4 Ways to Find Out
You’ll be pumped to know the answer to this important question
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Checking your heat pump system's model number label tells you whether you have a heat pump if it starts with HP.
Your thermostat shows an Emergency Heat option when you have a heat pump rather than a standard AC system.
Looking for a brass reversing valve inside your outdoor unit confirms you have a heat pump system.
Hiring a local heat pump repair professional provides reliable answers about your system and keeps annual maintenance on track.
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Heat pumps and air conditioners are both HVAC systems that work to heat and cool your home. But how do you know if you have a heat pump?
Heat pumps and AC units aren’t quite the same in function though they can look similar. Knowing what type of system you have is important because each system requires unique repair and maintenance from a heat pump professional. Let’s consider four ways to know if you have a heat pump or not.
1. Read the Labels on Your System
One of the easiest and most definitive ways to find out if you have a heat pump is to read your system’s labels. If you can’t find labels on the condenser unit, be sure to check the side of your indoor air handler.
First, locate the manufacturer label on your system and look for its Model Number, often indicated as M/N. If your Model Number begins with “HP,” this means your system is a heat pump. If you don’t see an HP at the beginning of your Model Number, make a note of it and then look it up online; this search can provide helpful information on the type of HVAC unit.
In addition to the manufacturer label, you can also check your system’s energy efficiency label. The energy efficiency label is bright yellow. When checking this label, you’ll either see “SEER” which stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio” or “HSFP” for “Heating Seasonal Performance Factor.” If you have a heat pump, your label should read “HSFP.” Keep in mind that older systems may not have labels.
2. Check the Thermostat
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Another way to determine whether or not you have a heat pump is to inspect your system’s thermostat. If your thermostat reads “Emergency Heat,” this means it has an emergency heating option and is a heat pump.
You could also turn on the heat pump’s thermostat and check to see if your outdoor unit is making noise and blowing out warm air. If so, you have a heat pump. This test method may not be effective if you have a hybrid system, as turning on the heat may not start up the heat pump.
3. Examine the Outdoor Unit
If turning on your thermostat doesn’t turn on your heat pump, try looking inside the top of your outdoor unit for a reversing valve. This part is made of brass and it’s responsible for switching the heat pump from the heating to cooling function.
If you spot a brass valve, you have a heating pump. If not, this doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have a heat pump; some brass valves can be hidden from sight depending on the type of system.
4. Hire an HVAC Professional
If none of the methods mentioned above bring you success, you can never go wrong consulting with a heat pump repair professional near you. Not only can a pro shed light on what type of HVAC system you have, they’re also highly trained to do any necessary HVAC repairs or maintenance. To keep your HVAC system in optimal shape, it’s best to hire a pro to service your system at least once a year.
Heating and air conditioning services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.5★ avg. • 115 total reviews
- Eric T.
Corey Carr was great. I had damage from a recent storm and needed to have my mast and other components replaced. The project entailed coordinating with AEP, and Corey helped make a stressful situation a lot less stressful. I really appreciated his dedication to service and the job very well done.
Mr. Electric of Columbus - Dawn G.
This service was great. My air conditioner went out during the heat spell that we had. My husband has health issues and they came out that night and at 9:30pm the air conditioner was fixed and running. We are sooo very thankful, this is the company I will be using from now on and would...
Mr. Mechanical Ohio - Justin Y.
I normally do not leave reviews, but my experience with Worthington Air was extremely frustrating and disappointing. About 30 days ago, I had a consultation done for an HVAC replacement and was quoted approximately $15,079. Based on that quote, I applied for financing through their company...
ARS Columbus Worthington Air - Jeff B.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon Mitigation - John A.
Raven and crew does absolutely fantastic job. They are very professional if any concerns were to occur with any of her work she always took responsibility and finished out with a great job. I have worked with her business for a year and have always been satisfied. Very trusted business and...
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I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Justin W.
Ace Fireplace Services' chimney sweep service is truly exceptional. They used advanced technology to ensure a thorough cleaning process, and my chimney has never looked better. I highly recommend their services.
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The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Lia P.
Excellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
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Window Depot USA of Central Ohio
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