Check the filters
Look at your filters every month during heating and cooling season. Clean or replace them as the manual says, often every one to three months. Ductless indoor units have washable filters behind the front panel. A clogged filter cuts efficiency and can make the system work harder.
Keep the outdoor unit clear
- Clear snow from around and on top of the unit after storms.
- Never wrap or cover it in winter. It needs airflow to heat your home.
- Keep leaves, grass and shrubs back from the sides.
- Watch for water dripping on it from the roof. That can build up as ice.
Defrost cycles are normal
In cold, damp weather the outdoor coil frosts over. The heat pump melts it off every so often. You may see steam, hear a whoosh and notice the fan stop for a few minutes. A thin layer of frost is normal. A unit encased in thick ice is not, so see our repair guide.
Go easy on thermostat setbacks
Big overnight temperature drops can make the system call for backup heat in the morning, which costs more. Small setbacks, or a thermostat designed for heat pumps, work better.
Book a yearly service
Have a qualified technician check the system once a year, ideally in the fall before the heating season. They should check refrigerant levels, electrical connections, coils and the condensate drain. Only certified technicians are allowed to handle refrigerant in Ontario.
Keep your warranty valid
Many manufacturers require you to register the unit, and some require proof of regular maintenance, to honour the full warranty. Keep your installation invoice and service records together.
Common questions
Can I hose down the outdoor unit?
A gentle rinse of the outside coil in spring or summer is fine with the power off. Never use a pressure washer, and do not open the unit.
General information for Ontario homeowners, not advice for your specific home. Rebate programs and rules change, so confirm current terms before you buy.