When inspecting a heat pump in cooling mode, a 28°F temperature differential suggests what issue?

A 28°F temperature differential when inspecting a heat pump in cooling mode often indicates that the system is not performing efficiently. This is typically seen when there is inadequate airflow over the evaporator coil, leading to less heat being absorbed from the indoor air. A common cause of this reduced airflow is a dirty filter. When the filter is clogged, it restricts airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary and resulting in a larger temperature differential.

This suggests that a lack of proper maintenance, such as not changing or cleaning the air filter regularly, can lead to operational issues within the heat pump system and ultimately affect its cooling effectiveness. A dirty filter not only prevents adequate airflow but can also contribute to additional strain on other components of the heat pump, leading to potential failures if not addressed.