Check the thermostat mode
Make sure it is set to cool and the setpoint is below room temperature.
Heat pump not cooling in summer?
A heat pump that runs but does not cool may be stuck in heat mode, low on refrigerant, or have an outdoor unit problem. Check the thermostat mode and filter, then call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent HVAC technician does the repair.
Am I in the right place?Yes for warm air in cooling mode, an outdoor unit that will not start, or ice on the lines.
Is this urgent?Yes in hot weather or with vulnerable people inside. If anyone shows signs of heat illness, such as confusion, dizziness, nausea, or hot dry skin, call 911 and move them somewhere cool.
What do I do next?Check the mode and filter, then call 833-877-1717.
Not heating: heat pump not heating. General: heat pump repair.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 14, 2026 · Review standards
Quick checks
Check the filter and outdoor unit
Replace a dirty filter and clear leaves, grass and debris from around the outdoor unit.
Turn it off if it is iced
If you see ice on the indoor coil or refrigerant lines in summer, turn cooling off and let it thaw.
Leave the unit closed
Do not open the outdoor unit, touch the capacitor or wiring, or handle refrigerant. Capacitors hold a dangerous charge even with power off, and refrigerant work requires EPA certification.
Common causes
Stuck in heat mode
The reversing valve switches between heating and cooling. If it sticks or its control fails, the heat pump may blow warm air in cool mode.
Low refrigerant
Leaks reduce cooling and can freeze the indoor coil. Only certified technicians can handle refrigerant.
Outdoor unit not running
Failed capacitors, contactors or fan motors stop the outdoor unit while the indoor fan keeps running.
Dirty coils and filters
Restricted airflow reduces cooling and can cause freezing. See evaporator coil repair.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code and whether it is a home, rental or business
- What happens: warm air, weak air, or not running
- Whether the outdoor unit runs
- Any ice on lines or coils
- System age and brand, if known
How heat pump cooling repair usually works
- Check controls. Thermostat settings and signals to the reversing valve are checked.
- Check the outdoor unit. Capacitors, contactors, fans and the compressor are tested.
- Check refrigerant. Pressures are measured and any leak is found and repaired.
- Repair. Failed parts such as the reversing valve solenoid, capacitors or fan motors are replaced.
In winter, heat pumps go into defrost mode and briefly blow cool air. That is normal. In summer, warm air in cool mode is not.
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles heat pump repair in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717Heat pump cooling questions
Why is my heat pump blowing warm air in cool mode?
The reversing valve or its control may be stuck, or the outdoor unit is not running.
Is it normal for steam to come off the outdoor unit?
In winter, yes, during defrost. In summer, it is not normal and should be checked.
Can I add refrigerant myself?
No. Refrigerant work requires EPA Section 608 certification, and a leak needs to be found and fixed.
Do providers work on all heat pump brands?
Many technicians service major brands. Share the brand and model when you call.
Can I call at night?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.