Heat Pump
Heat Pump | Heat Repair | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sewanee
When winter winds curl over the Plateau, Sewanee homeowners trust HEP for fast, no-nonsense heat repair that gets their heat pump humming again. Our certified technicians arrive with fully stocked trucks, ready to diagnose issues, replace worn components, and fine-tune your system so it delivers steady warmth and energy-smart performance. Because we’re local, we know how quickly a cozy cottage can turn chilly; that’s why we offer 24/7 emergency service, transparent pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee on every job.
Beyond urgent fixes, HEP is your long-term partner for comfort. We optimize heat pump settings for Sewanee’s unique climate swings, provide routine maintenance plans that head off costly breakdowns, and back every repair with clear communication and helpful tips to keep utility bills in check. Whether you’re hearing an odd rattle at midnight or planning a seasonal tune-up, one call brings dependable, neighborly expertise right to your door.
FAQs
Why are heat pumps a good choice for homes in Sewanee?
Sewanee’s climate is characterized by mild, humid summers and winters that can drop below freezing. A heat pump is ideal for this range because it efficiently provides both heating and cooling in a single system. In winter it pulls heat from the outdoor air—even when temperatures dip into the 30s—while in summer it reverses to act like an air conditioner. This flexibility, paired with Tennessee’s relatively moderate winter lows, allows homeowners to enjoy year-round comfort with lower energy bills than with separate furnace and AC units.
What are common signs my heat pump needs repair?
Watch for inconsistent temperatures, short cycling (rapid on/off), frost buildup outside of normal defrost mode, unusual noises such as grinding or squealing, or a sudden rise in electric bills. In Sewanee’s cooler months, a malfunctioning unit may blow lukewarm air or need frequent thermostat adjustments to keep up. Addressing these symptoms early reduces the chance of a total system failure when you need heat the most.
How quickly can you respond to emergency heat pump repairs in Sewanee?
We provide 24/7 emergency service throughout the Sewanee area, including the University campus and surrounding Cumberland Plateau communities. A technician is usually dispatched within one hour of your call, and most repairs are completed on the first visit because our trucks are stocked with the most common heat pump parts. If a specialty component is required, we’ll place an expedited order and install a temporary solution to keep your home safe and warm.
What should I do if my outdoor heat pump is icing over?
A light layer of frost is normal in cold, damp Sewanee mornings, but a solid block of ice signals trouble. First, switch the thermostat to ‘Emergency Heat’ and turn the heat pump breaker off so the auxiliary heat strips take over. Then clear away snow, leaves, or debris from around the unit. Check that the outdoor fan is spinning freely. Call our service line for a defrost cycle inspection: the issue could be a bad defrost timer, low refrigerant, or a failed fan motor—all problems we can repair quickly.
How often should my heat pump be serviced?
We recommend two tune-ups a year: one in early fall before heating season and another in spring before cooling season. Bi-annual maintenance includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant charge, testing the thermostat, inspecting electrical components, and verifying defrost and backup heat functionality. Regular service helps stave off mid-winter breakdowns, maintains manufacturer warranties, and can improve energy efficiency by up to 20%.
Will repairing my older heat pump save money compared to replacing it?
That depends on the unit’s age, repair history, and energy efficiency. If your heat pump is less than 10 years old and repairs cost under 30% of replacement, fixing it is usually the economical choice. For systems older than 12–15 years, especially those with R-22 refrigerant or SEER ratings below today’s standards, a new high-efficiency model can cut your heating and cooling costs by 25–40%. During an onsite evaluation we’ll run a cost-benefit analysis specific to Sewanee utility rates to help you decide.