NATE Heat Pumps 2

Question 1

Which type of heat pump extracts heat from the ground rather than outdoor air?

Accepted Answer

Geothermal (ground-source) heat pump

Answer

Geothermal heat pumps use underground loops to exchange heat with the earth, which stays at a relatively constant temperature year-round.

Question 2

When a heat pump is in heating mode and the emergency heat is energized, what happens?

Accepted Answer

Only electric resistance strips provide heat; the compressor is locked out

Answer

Emergency heat bypasses the heat pump compressor and relies solely on electric resistance heat strips, typically used when the heat pump has failed.

Question 3

What is a common symptom of a stuck reversing valve in the heating position?

Accepted Answer

Both A and C

Answer

A reversing valve stuck in heating mode causes the system to heat when cooling is called for, and the outdoor coil may ice in summer because it acts as an evaporator.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the check valves used in a heat pump refrigerant circuit?

Accepted Answer

Redirect refrigerant flow so both the indoor and outdoor coils can act as either evaporator or condenser

Answer

Check valves route refrigerant around the metering devices depending on the direction of flow, allowing a single bidirectional circuit.

Question 5

What outdoor temperature indicates a heat pump may need a 'cold climate' or variable-speed model to remain effective?

Accepted Answer

Below 0°F

Answer

Standard heat pumps lose significant capacity below 32°F, while cold-climate models maintain heating capacity down to -13°F or lower.

NATE - North American Technician Excellence Practice Test

NATE - North American Technician Excellence Practice Test

NATE Heat Pumps 2