Heat Pumps in Cold Weather: Defrost, Steam and Ice
Heat pumps behave differently from furnaces in cold, damp weather. Here is what is normal.
Request an HVAC technicianSteam is normal
In defrost mode the outdoor unit melts frost off its coil, and you may see steam. It usually lasts a few minutes.
Cool air during defrost
Some systems blow cooler air briefly during defrost.
Ice that stays
Thick ice that does not clear, or ice on the top of the unit, needs a technician.
Keep it clear
Keep snow, leaves and debris clear from around the outdoor unit. See heat pumps.
More heating and cooling guides
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