On a cool, damp morning, you may notice a cloud of steam rising from your outdoor heat-pump unit. It can look alarming, but it may be part of normal operation.

Your heat pump may be defrosting

When a heat pump runs in heating mode, its outdoor coil can collect frost in certain weather conditions. The system periodically runs a defrost cycle to clear that frost. During the cycle, you may see steam, hear a change in the unit’s sound, or notice that the air from your vents feels cooler for a short time.

That brief change can be normal. The unit should return to regular heating after the cycle.

When should you be concerned?

Call an HVAC professional if:

• The outdoor unit stays covered in heavy ice after a defrost cycle.

• Your home isn’t warming up or the system runs constantly.

• You notice unusual grinding, scraping, or other persistent noises.

• You see the same problem happening repeatedly.

Don’t chip ice off the unit or pour hot water on it. That can damage the equipment. Keep leaves and other debris clear of the unit, and make sure nothing is blocking airflow.

If your heat pump isn’t clearing frost or keeping your home comfortable, Melton Heating & AC can check the system and find the cause. We’re a local, family-owned HVAC company serving Kennesaw and nearby communities since 1982.

Need help with your heat pump? Call or text Melton Heating & AC at 770-312-0168.

 Seeing steam or frost on your heat pump in Kennesaw? Learn what a normal defrost cycle looks like and when it’s time to call for service.