Defrost Cycle – What happens and is normal operation
If you’re finding your heat pump seems to be on, but blowing out cold air watch this video above first. Chances are your heat pump is operating totally normal, you’re just experiencing a defrost cycle.
What is a defrost cycle?
A defrost cycle runs when your system detects enough ice/frost/snow on the outdoor unit that needs to be cleared off to avoid hindering the heat pumps operation.
When in defrost your inside units fan will often continue to run, which is moving air in the room, but not longer adding heat to that air. This is what will feel like cold air. It isn’t actually “cold” it is just the act of the fan blowing the air through the room.
Defrost cycles can happen one, twice or more per hour when the weather is just right, but usually not that often.
Defrost is a totally normal aspect of heat pump operation and is required to ensure your system stays in tip top operating condition.
