Sage-Tips

Does the fan run in defrost mode?

It is normal for the outdoor fan to run while the outdoor unit compressor is running AND the system is in heating mode, not in defrost mode. In heating mode, as heat is extracted from the outdoor coil its surface becomes colder than the outdoor air temperature and can drop below freezing.

Should heat pump fan run when heat is on?

Your heat pump fan won’t run when the air handling unit is off. These two units work in tandem. The fan on your unit should spin when you want air in your house and shouldn’t spin when the temperature has reached the desired temperature set on your thermostat.

What happens when heat pump goes into defrost mode?

When the heat pump goes into defrost mode, it momentarily reverses operation and goes through the “cooling cycle.” This forces warm air through the outdoor coil, warming it temporarily to remove the frost.

How long should a heat pump run in defrost mode?

Generally, a unit must run for a minimum of about 35 minutes after starting up before completing its first defrost. From there, defrosts should occur no more often than approximately every 40 minutes.

How often should heat pump go into defrost mode?

every 35 minutes
Generally, heat pumps will defrost regularly when frost conditions are occurring. However, the frequency of defrosts should be no more than roughly every 35 minutes. The length of time the heat pump will defrost will vary, but ordinarily it should not take longer than 10 minutes.

How do I know if my heat pump is in defrost mode?

You will know the unit is in defrost mode when the indoor fan stops, the unit will stop heating, and an indicator light may blink. The outdoor fan will also stop and the compressor will continue running.

When should I turn my heat pump to emergency heat?

When Should I Switch My Heat Pump Thermostat to Emergency Heat? [FAQ] Short answer: You should only set your heat pump’s thermostat to “emergency heat” when your heat pump stops heating altogether. And in that case, you should also call a professional for help.

How do you know if your heat pump is in defrost mode?

How often should my heat pump go into defrost mode?

Why is my heat pump not defrosting properly?

Malfunctioning defrost timer – The defrost mode on your heat pump is designed to kick on at pre-determined intervals to keep the outdoor unit free from icy buildup. If the timer malfunctions, your outdoor unit may not defrost as needed and freeze over.

What to do if your heat pump is blowing cold air?

Heat Pump Troubleshooting Problem #3: BLOWING COLD IN HEAT MODE. First of all, just check and make sure your unit was not accidentally switched to a/c mode. Next, check your outdoor unit is not iced over (see Heat Pump Troubleshooting Problem #1). If not, your system may have a valve problem, a refrigerant charge issue, or a compressor problem.

Why is my heat pump fan blowing out cool air?

During this defrost cycle with older heat pumps, the indoor unit might be operating with the fan blowing cool air. To prevent cool air from being produced and distributed inside the house, an electric heating element can be installed and engaged at the same time as the defrost cycle.

Is it normal for a heat pump to freeze up?

WINTER ICING. During the cold winter months, your heat pump’s outside unit will sometimes be covered with a coating of frost on the sides, or even light ice. This is perfectly normal. Every so often, the unit will go into defrost mode to remove that frost.