Goodman Heat Pump Not Cooling: Causes and Fixes

A Goodman heat pump not cooling can be disruptive and costly if left unresolved. This guide helps identify common causes, step-by-step troubleshooting, maintenance tips, and when to call a technician, giving homeowners practical, safe actions to restore cooling performance.

Symptom	Likely Cause	Quick Action
Unit Won’t Turn On	Power Issue, Tripped Breaker	Check Breaker, Reset Disconnect
Runs But No Cool Air	Refrigerant Leak, Reversing Valve	Inspect Coils, Call Technician
Short Cycling	Thermostat Or Compressor Issue	Check Thermostat Settings
Frozen Coils	Low Refrigerant, Poor Airflow	Turn Off Unit, Thaw, Check Filters

How A Goodman Heat Pump Cooling System Works

A Goodman heat pump transfers heat by circulating refrigerant between an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condenser coil while the reversing valve determines heating or cooling mode. In cooling mode, the system extracts indoor heat and rejects it outdoors. Proper operation depends on electrical components, refrigerant charge, airflow, and controls.

Common Reasons A Goodman Heat Pump Is Not Cooling

Insufficient Refrigerant Charge

Low refrigerant is a common cause of poor cooling. Leaks reduce the system’s ability to absorb heat and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, lowering efficiency and airflow.

Electrical Or Power Failures

Tripped breakers, blown fuses, or a tripped disconnect at the outdoor unit will prevent the compressor or fan from running, producing no cooling despite thermostat calls for cooling.

Dirty Or Blocked Air Filters And Coils

Restricted airflow from clogged filters, dirty evaporator coils, or blocked outdoor coils reduces heat transfer. Poor airflow forces the system to work harder and may lead to coil icing and compressor strain.

Faulty Reversing Valve Or Defrost Cycle Issues

If the reversing valve sticks or the defrost control malfunctions, the unit may be stuck in heating or enter excessive defrost cycles, disrupting normal cooling operation.

Faulty Compressor Or Capacitor

A failed compressor or damaged start/run capacitor can stop the system from compressing refrigerant or starting, causing the heat pump not to cool even when fans run.

Thermostat Malfunctions Or Settings

Incorrect thermostat settings, wiring faults, or a failed thermostat sensor can prevent the heat pump from receiving the proper cooling call or engaging the outdoor unit.

Step-By-Step Troubleshooting For Homeowners

Safety First

Before inspecting, turn off power at the outdoor disconnect and circuit breaker. Only proceed with visual checks and non-invasive tasks unless qualified to work on electrical or refrigerant systems.

Check Power And Controls

Verify the thermostat is set to cool and the temperature is below room temp setting. Inspect the breaker panel for a tripped breaker and reset if needed. Ensure the outdoor unit’s disconnect switch is on.

Inspect Air Filters And Vents

Replace or clean the air filter if dirty. Ensure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Good airflow is critical for heat transfer and preventing coil freezing.

Examine Outdoor Unit And Coils

Look for debris, leaves, or vegetation blocking the outdoor condenser. Clean the fins gently with a soft brush and hose at low pressure. Avoid bending fins and never spray high-pressure water directly at electrical components.

Look For Frozen Evaporator Coil Signs

Ice on the indoor coil or refrigerant lines indicates possible low refrigerant or airflow problems. Turn off cooling and run the fan-only mode to thaw the coil before further inspection.

Listen For Unusual Noises

Clicking, humming, or grinding noises may indicate capacitor failure, compressor issues, or fan motor problems. These sound clues help determine whether to call a professional.

Reset The System

After basic checks, reset the thermostat and breakers. Sometimes control boards or safety switches require a power cycle to clear faults. Wait several minutes before restoring power to allow capacitors to discharge.

DIY Fixes Homeowners Can Safely Attempt

Replace Or Clean Filters

Replacing a clogged filter is the simplest fix and often restores airflow and cooling. Recommended replacement frequency is every 1–3 months depending on use and indoor air quality.

Clear Outdoor Unit Obstructions

Remove leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit. Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance to ensure adequate airflow. Straighten bent fins with a fin comb to improve heat exchange.

Check Thermostat Batteries And Settings

Replace thermostat batteries and verify correct wiring and mode. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and diagnostics.

Defrost Frozen Coils

If coils are frozen, turn off the compressor and run the indoor fan or heat to melt ice. After thawing, inspect filters and airflow paths before restarting cooling to prevent re-freezing.

When To Call A Professional Technician

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if the problem involves refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, electrical component replacement, reversing valve issues, or persistent performance problems after basic troubleshooting. Working with refrigerant and high-voltage components requires certification and specialized tools.

What To Expect From A Pro Diagnosis

A technician will perform a complete system evaluation including measuring refrigerant pressures, testing electrical components and capacitors, inspecting the reversing valve and defrost system, and checking airflow and ductwork. They will also test the thermostat and control board for faults.

Estimated Repair Costs And Timeframes

Repair costs vary widely depending on the fault. Minor fixes like filters, cleaning, or capacitors typically cost $100–$400. Refrigerant leak detection and recharge ranges $300–$800 depending on refrigerant type and leak complexity. Compressor replacement can cost $1,200–$4,000 including labor. Repairs generally take 1–4 hours; major component replacements may take longer.

Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Cooling Failures

Regular Inspections And Tune-Ups

Annual professional maintenance in spring helps ensure the Goodman heat pump is ready for cooling season. A tune-up includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant, testing electrical components, and calibrating controls.

Keep Filters And Coils Clean

Change filters regularly and schedule coil cleanings as needed. Maintaining clean coils improves efficiency and reduces the risk of freezing and compressor failure.

Maintain Proper Thermostat Settings

Use programmable schedules to reduce wear and prevent short cycling. Keep thermostat sensors unobstructed and avoid locating thermostats near heat sources or direct sunlight.

Ensure Proper Ductwork And Insulation

Leaky or poorly insulated ducts reduce system capacity. Sealing and insulating ducts improves cooling distribution and reduces strain on the heat pump.

Troubleshooting Table: Symptoms, Causes, Actions

Symptom	Possible Causes	Immediate Action
Outdoor Unit Not Running	Tripped Breaker, Disconnected Power, Faulty Contactor	Check Breaker And Disconnect, Inspect For Visible Damage
Air Blowing Warm	Low Refrigerant, Reversing Valve Issue, Compressor Fault	Check Airflow, Call Technician For Refrigerant/Compressor
Short Cycles	Thermostat, Low Refrigerant, Compressor Overload	Check Thermostat Settings, Inspect For Ice/Filters
Frozen Coil	Low Airflow, Low Refrigerant	Turn Off Compressor, Thaw, Replace Filters, Call Pro

Goodman Heat Pump Warranties And Parts

Goodman typically offers limited warranties on compressors, parts, and heat exchangers. Warranty terms vary by model and registration status. Homeowners should check the appliance’s serial number and registration for specific coverage and keep service records to support warranty claims.

When Replacement Is The Best Option

Consider replacement when the heat pump is older than 10–15 years, the compressor has failed, or repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost. New systems offer improved efficiency, quieter operation, and better reliability, often delivering lower operating costs.

Energy Efficiency And Savings Tips

Optimize cooling efficiency by upgrading to a higher SEER-rated heat pump, using a programmable thermostat, sealing ducts, and improving home insulation. Regular maintenance can preserve efficiency and reduce utility bills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does The Heat Pump Run But Not Cool The House?

This often indicates low refrigerant charge, restricted airflow, a malfunctioning reversing valve, or compressor inefficiency. A professional diagnosis can pinpoint the specific cause.

Can A Homeowner Add Refrigerant?

Adding refrigerant requires EPA certification and specialized gauges. It is not recommended as a DIY task because overcharging or misdiagnosing leaks can cause more damage and violate regulations.

How Long Should A Goodman Heat Pump Last?

With proper maintenance, a Goodman heat pump typically lasts 10–15 years. Lifespan depends on usage patterns, maintenance history, and installation quality.

Does Freezing Always Mean Leaks?

Freezing can result from low refrigerant, but it can also be caused by airflow issues like clogged filters or blocked vents. Always address airflow before assuming a refrigerant leak.

Choosing A Qualified HVAC Technician

Select a licensed, insured technician with Goodman experience and positive local reviews. Request an estimate detailing parts, labor, warranties, and refrigerant charges. Verify credentials and ask about diagnostic fees and guarantees on repairs.

Key Takeaways

Goodman heat pump not cooling issues often trace to refrigerant levels, airflow problems, electrical faults, or compressor and reversing valve failures. Homeowners can perform safe checks like inspecting power, filters, and outdoor unit cleanliness, but should call a qualified technician for refrigerant or electrical repairs.