# Heat Pump Repair in Georgia

> Heat pump repair in Georgia: no heat or cooling, defrost and ice problems, emergency heat, typical repair costs, repair vs. replace, and how to reach a participating HVAC contractor.

URL: https://georgiahvacrepair.us/heat-pump-repair/

Georgia HVAC Repair is an independent referral service that connects Georgia homeowners with participating independent HVAC contractors for heat pump repair. Heat pumps are common in Georgia because the climate is mild enough for them to heat efficiently most of the winter. This page explains how they fail and what a repair involves.

## What's normal for a heat pump

Some heat pump behavior looks alarming but is normal. In cold, damp weather the outdoor unit periodically runs a **defrost cycle**: the fan stops, the unit may hiss or click, and you may see steam rising. Light frost on the coil that clears on its own is normal. On very cold days, the system may switch on **auxiliary heat** (electric heat strips) to help keep up.

## Signs your heat pump needs repair

- No heat or no cooling
- Thick ice that doesn't clear, or ice on the top of the unit
- Blowing cool air in heat mode
- Auxiliary or emergency heat running constantly (watch your power bill)
- The unit won't switch between heating and cooling
- Short cycling, loud grinding or banging, or a burning smell

## Common causes

- **Defrost control problems** that let ice build up
- **Reversing valve failure**, which keeps the system stuck in heating or cooling
- **Capacitor, contactor, or fan motor failure**, as with air conditioners
- **Low refrigerant from a leak**, which hurts heating and cooling
- **Thermostat setup**: thermostats for heat pumps need correct configuration

## Repair or replace a heat pump

ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement if a heat pump is more than 10 years old or needs frequent repairs ([ENERGY STAR](https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling/replace)). New split-system heat pumps must meet a federal minimum of 14.3 SEER2 for cooling ([U.S. Department of Energy](https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/2023_CAC_Standards_FAQ_10-5-2022_Final.pdf)). Use our [repair or replace calculator](https://georgiahvacrepair.us/ac-repair-or-replace-calculator/) to weigh your own system.

## When to call an HVAC professional

- Ice that doesn't clear after a defrost cycle
- No heat, or cool air in heat mode
- Emergency or auxiliary heat running all the time
- The system won't switch modes
- Burning smells or a breaker that keeps tripping

## What heat pump repair costs

HomeAdvisor's 2026 data puts most heat pump repairs at **$161–$661**, averaging about **$410** ([HomeAdvisor, 2026](https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/heating-and-cooling/repair-a-heat-pump/)). Typical parts: capacitor $150–$250, refrigerant $100–$350, defrost control board $200–$650, condenser coil $650–$1,500, and compressor $800–$3,500.

- The failed part
- System age and refrigerant type
- Access to the indoor unit
- After-hours service

## Safe checks before you call

1. **Thermostat:** confirm the mode (Heat, Cool, or Auto) and the setting.
2. **Breakers:** check both the outdoor unit and the indoor air handler breakers.
3. **Filter:** replace a dirty filter.
4. **Outdoor unit:** clear leaves, snow, or debris. Don't chip ice off the coil.
5. **Emergency heat:** if the outdoor unit has failed, setting the thermostat to Emergency Heat can keep you warm with the heat strips until a repair (it costs more to run).

## Questions to ask the contractor

- Do you hold a current Georgia conditioned air contractor license?
- What's the diagnostic fee, and is it credited toward the repair?
- Will you give me the diagnosis and price in writing before you start?
- Is the defrost system working correctly?
- How old is the unit, and what refrigerant does it use?
- Would a repair or a new heat pump make more sense here?

## FAQ

**Why is my heat pump blowing cool air in heat mode?**

During a defrost cycle it can briefly blow cooler air, which is normal. If it continues, causes include a stuck reversing valve, low refrigerant, a thermostat set up incorrectly, or a failed outdoor unit with auxiliary heat not working. Call a technician.

**Is it normal for a heat pump to steam or ice up?**

Steam and light frost that clear during a defrost cycle are normal in cold, damp weather. Thick ice that stays, or ice covering the top of the unit, is not, and usually means a defrost control, fan, or refrigerant problem.

**How much does heat pump repair cost?**

HomeAdvisor's 2026 data puts most heat pump repairs at $161–$661, averaging about $410. Compressor repairs can reach $800–$3,500.

**Does Georgia HVAC Repair do the work?**

No. Georgia HVAC Repair is an independent referral service. Your call is connected with a participating independent HVAC contractor who serves your area, if one is available, and that contractor does the work.

Referral disclosure: Georgia HVAC Repair is an independent referral service. We help connect homeowners with participating HVAC service providers and may receive compensation for referrals. Repairs and other services are performed by independent contractors. Phone: (770) 679-7684.