10/16/2026
Steam coming off your outdoor unit on a frosty morning? Don't panic. That's your heat pump defrosting. ❄️
As the nights get colder, here's what's normal, and when to call a pro:
✅ Steam or water dripping from the outdoor unit = the defrost cycle. You may notice a short pause in heat, then it goes back to heating on its own.
✅ Humming, clicking or whooshing = normal. Outdoor units can also gurgle during defrost.
✅ Air that feels cooler than a furnace = normal. Heat pumps typically deliver air at 25–45°C, compared with 55–60°C from a furnace.
⚙️ Use "Heat" mode, not "Auto", and keep night setbacks to 1–2°C. Deep setbacks can switch on costly backup heat.
📏 Keep at least 30 cm clear around the outdoor unit, and clear away snow.
⚠️ Loud banging, scraping or persistent vibration? That's when to call a pro.
Sources:
Efficiency Nova Scotia: https://www.efficiencyns.ca/tools-and-resources/tips-and-guides/getting-the-most-out-of-your-heat-pump
Natural Resources Canada: https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-star/heating-cooling-heat-pump
Questions about your heat pump? We're here: https://www.tralo.ca
– The TRALO team