Heat pump maintenance guide for Halifax winters
Ice, salt air, and sub-zero nights all punish heat pumps. Here's what to check before the first cold snap. And what to leave to a pro.
Before the first cold snap
The ideal time for a professional deep clean is October or early November. Before the heating season starts. A clean system runs cooler, pulls less current, and handles sub-zero weather with more headroom.
If you missed the fall window, don't wait until spring. Mid-winter cleans are common and fix the same problems.
Keep the outdoor unit clear
The outdoor condenser needs airflow to defrost properly. Brush snow off the top and sides after every storm, and clear a foot of space around the unit so it can breathe.
Never use hot water or a scraper. If ice has formed solid around the coils, shut the system off and call us. Aggressive ice removal damages fins.
Listen for the defrost cycle
Heat pumps automatically run defrost cycles in cold weather. You'll hear a brief pause, maybe some hissing, then normal operation resumes. That's healthy.
If you hear constant ice, repeated long stalls, or the indoor head blowing cold air for more than a few minutes, the system may be low on refrigerant or struggling with a dirty coil. Both are fixable, but both need service.
Don't forget the HRV
HRVs work hardest in winter, pulling the moist indoor air out and the cold outdoor air in. A clogged core during heating season is the fastest way to get mould on your windows and condensation on your walls.
We recommend bundling an HRV clean with your annual heat pump service, ideally in late fall.
Common questions
- Should I cover my outdoor unit in winter?
- No. Covers trap moisture against the unit and can cause corrosion. The coils are designed to handle weather. Just keep snow off the top.
- My heat pump runs almost constantly. Is that normal in winter?
- Mostly yes. Modern inverter-driven heat pumps run long, low-output cycles instead of short bursts. It's more efficient than the old on/off pattern. Constant cold air blowing, though, is not normal.
- When should I book a winter service?
- Call us at the first sign of reduced heat, ice buildup, strange noises, or error codes. Waiting through a cold snap usually turns a service call into a repair call.
Ready for a deep clean?
Put this into practice in your home.
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