The reversing valve is a 4-way valve that sits in the refrigerant line. One of those problems is becoming stuck in one mode or another. The mechanical valve can become stuck, however, and that will trap the system in whatever mode it’s currently operating in. When you try to turn the a/c on it runs heat. Second, the process should only take a few minutes. Another common scenario is when the thermostat calls for a three-degree temperature rise . Luckily, this part can be easily swapped out by a pro. When that happens, the heat pump will reverse the flow of refrigerant so that hot refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit (to melt the ice). Signs that your heat pump is in defrost mode include: I got the a/c to run by cycling the power a couple of times but after having to use the heat again, it is stuck again. Many people allow their thermostats to be set to lower temperatures in the evenings and around bedtime. Could this be an electrical problem or is it probably the reversing valve? Heat Pump Stuck in Aux Heat Mode. When your heat pump experiences issues, it might not be a problem with the actual system at all but rather with your thermostat. If your heat pump isn’t cooling the air in your home, read on to find out why. If your heat pump seems to be stuck on auxiliary heat mode and the temperatures outside are above 35 degrees, you should call the professionals at Precision Heating & Air. Coronavirus Update: We care about your health and continue to service our customers safely. Have a look at how the reversing valve operates, and how a problem with it can lock your system into cooling mode. The Reversing Valve. If you notice the heat pump defrosting for an extended period of time, call a pro right away. I have a heat pump that seems to be stuck in heat mode. Thermostat: As the brain of your system, this component should never be overlooked. Broken reversing valve: The reversing valve is the essential component of the heat pump for changing the system over from one mode to another. When this occurs the system can get stuck in ‘heating’ mode. If your heat pump seems to be stuck in cooling mode, it’s probably because of a problem with your reversing valve. Having a heater that won't heat is a frustrating problem, for sure. When the user presses the “change mode” button on the device, an electrical signal is sent to the solenoid in the valve; this part activates the sliding mechanism, and then it makes sure the refrigerant passes through the valve to the desired place so it can either cool or heat depending on the selected mode. Here's what's happening when your heat pump seems stuck. The Reversing Valve. The defrost mode light stays on constantly: First, the heat pump shouldn’t even go into defrost mode unless the outside unit is covered in snow or ice. 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