01/24/2026
WINTER WEATHER HEAT PUMP ADVICE
(DISCLAIMER: This is my personal/professional opinion. Please do what you think is best or what your regular HVAC provider recommends.)
*In the event we actually get the anticipated heavy snow, it IS a good idea to remove the heavy snow from around your outdoor heat pump unit, if it's blocking the coil of the unit itself. Most units are positioned at least 6-8" off the ground so it's generally not a concern unless we get really deep snow.
*Familiarize yourself with the area around your heat pump BEFORE the snow starts. Take a video or a picture of the area for reference. The last you want is to put a snow shovel through an electrical line or refrigerant line because it's covered in snow.
*Nearly all digital/smart thermostats handle the cycling on/off of AUX HEAT automatically. There isn't any need to manually adjust the setting (in most cases).
*If your house or HVAC system is less than 15 years old, it is very likely that the EM HEAT elements are NOT sized to heat the entire space. They are sized to supplement the heat pump. For this reason, I never recommend switching from regular HEAT to EM HEAT. Again, this is a "use your best judgement" scenario.
*Design standard for our region is to maintain an indoor temperature of 68 degrees when the outdoor temp is 17 degrees. We are going to be considerably colder than that over the next week. Your heat will likely run constantly and the electric heat will too.
*All heat pumps go through a DEFROST CYCLE (typically every 30-90 minutes depending on factory setting). This will sound especially "violent" with ice, snow and extreme cold in the mix. Defrost typically lasts about 10 minutes.
*Frost on an outdoor unit is normal and expected. Excessive ice buildup can be a concern.
*Given the nature of heat pumps and the defrost cycle, it's not uncommon for the fan blades to freeze up. If your outdoor unit is under a roof overhang or in an area where excessive moisture can drip onto the unit, it can be especially susceptible to frozen fan blades.
If you think have an issue, contact your warranty provider or preferred service company first. I will try to be available by mobile or text (240.357.3275) to answer any emergency questions.
If you have any "group-think" questions or advice, feel free to add to this thread.
Jason Clem
MD HVAC # 16289
