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Reversing Valve Problems

Why Your Air Conditioner Is Not Heating or Cooling Properly

If your air conditioner is not cooling in summer or not heating in winter, the issue may be a faulty reversing valve. This component is essential in reverse cycle air conditioning systems, allowing your unit to switch between cooling and heating modes.

When the reversing valve fails, you may find your AC blowing hot air on cold setting, or your aircon blowing hot air in summer. Other signs include aircon error codes, controller blinking, and even your entire AC not working.

At Vital Air Conditioning Services, we diagnose and repair reversing valve faults across Sydney. Whether it’s stuck, leaking, or electrically disconnected, our experienced team can get your unit running properly again.

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Vital Air Conditioning Services | Reversing Valve Problems

What Is a Reversing Valve and What Does It Do?

In a reverse cycle air conditioner, the reversing valve is responsible for switching the direction of refrigerant flow. This allows your system to heat or cool your home using the same equipment.

When you switch from cooling to heating mode (or vice versa), the reversing valve shifts internally to redirect the refrigerant. If it gets stuck or stops working, your system may be stuck in the wrong mode or not work at all.

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Signs of Reversing Valve Failure

Reversing valve problems often mimic more common AC faults, but a trained technician can identify the difference. You may notice:

  • Air conditioner not heating during winter
  • Air conditioner not cooling during summer
  • AC blowing hot air on cold setting
  • Aircon blowing hot air in summer
  • Aircon with no air or weak airflow from vents
  • AC making strange noises, such as hissing, clicking or buzzing during startup
  • Controller blinking or stuck on one mode
  • Aircon error codes appearing after a mode change
  • Aircon leaking water or forming condensation from restricted refrigerant flow
  • Air conditioner not turning on or short cycling
  • Aircon tripping electric unit or aircon blowing the breaker under load

A faulty reversing valve can affect the pressure and temperature balance in your system, leading to poor performance or complete system shutdown.

Common Causes of Reversing Valve Problems

1

Stuck Valve Spool

The internal component of the valve may become stuck due to debris, wear, or refrigerant contaminants. This prevents it from shifting into the correct position when changing modes.
2

Faulty Solenoid Coil

The solenoid controls the electrical switching of the valve. If it fails, the reversing valve cannot engage, leaving the system stuck in either heating or cooling mode.
3

Refrigerant Imbalance

Low refrigerant pressure can affect valve operation, causing aircon error codes, weak airflow AC, and coil freeze-ups.
4

Age and Corrosion

Older systems may suffer from wear or corrosion in the valve assembly, leading to AC not working, aircon with no air, or incorrect temperature output.

Preventing Reversing Valve Issues

Regular air conditioner maintenance is the best way to prevent reversing valve problems. During an aircon service, our technicians:

  • Inspect refrigerant levels
  • Clean internal components
  • Test the reversing valve’s electrical signals
  • Clear any debris that may affect valve operation
  • Confirm the system switches modes smoothly

If your unit is slow to heat or cool, showing weak airflow AC, or blowing warm air when it shouldn’t, book a service before it worsens.

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Vital Air Conditioning Services | Reversing Valve Problems

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my air conditioner blowing hot air instead of cold?

This is a classic symptom of a reversing valve fault. If the valve is stuck, it may keep the system in heating mode even when cooling is selected.

Can a faulty reversing valve stop my AC from working completely?

Yes. If the valve fails in an intermediate position or causes high pressure buildup, it can shut down the system and trigger aircon error codes or air conditioner not turning on.

Why does my aircon keep tripping the breaker or electric unit?

If the reversing valve causes the compressor to work under incorrect pressure, it may overload the system and lead to the aircon blowing the breaker or aircon tripping electric unit.

What causes a reversing valve to fail?

Age, corrosion, electrical faults in the solenoid, and refrigerant contamination are the most common causes.

How can I tell if it’s the reversing valve or something else?

Only a qualified technician can isolate the issue. Symptoms can resemble a bad thermostat, PCB failure, or refrigerant leak. We test the valve directly and check refrigerant pressures to confirm.

Can I keep using my system if the reversing valve is stuck?

No. Running your system with a faulty valve can damage the compressor, raise your energy bills, and cause further internal component failures. It is best to book emergency air conditioner repair immediately.

Book a Reversing Valve Inspection or Repair

If your aircon is not cooling, blowing warm air, or stuck in one mode, don’t wait for a full breakdown. The reversing valve is critical to your system’s ability to switch between cooling and heating.

Vital Air Conditioning Services provides expert diagnosis, repair, and emergency AC repair services across Sydney. We are your trusted choice for reliable air conditioner services, aircon maintenance, and system repairs.

Looking for a fast, local aircon service near me or an affordable AC repairer? Contact Vital Air Conditioning Services today.

Discuss your Air Conditioning Needs With Us

Vital Air Conditioning is ready to help you with your cooling or heating requirements. Contact us today for more information on any of the services we provide.

Phone

(02) 9730 0529 (02) 8763 0983

Email

[email protected]

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