Heat Pump Repair and Troubleshooting for Ontario Homes

A thin layer of frost that melts during defrost is normal in cold, damp weather. A thick, growing block of ice, or ice that stays after defrost, is not. Switch the thermostat to emergency heat (backup heat only) if it has that setting, and call us.

Heat pump air is often lukewarm compared with furnace air, especially in mild conditions. If it is truly cold, the cause could be defrost mode, low airflow, a sensor problem or a refrigerant issue. We test to tell them apart.

Note the message and try a power reset at the breaker. If it comes back, the cause may be wiring, a failed board or a mismatched control. We trace the low-voltage connections and the communication between components.

We consider age, repair history, parts availability and the type of fault. A sensor or capacitor is a routine repair. If replacement looks wiser, our heat pump installation page explains how we plan one.

Generally yes, depending on the model and parts availability. We work with many leading brands. Tell us the make and model when you book, and a diagnostic fee may apply; confirmed at booking.

Emergency heat, often labelled EM heat, runs the backup heat source only and skips the heat pump. Use it if the outdoor unit is not working or is iced over, not as a normal mode, because it can cost more to run. Hybrid systems behave differently. Call us if you need to rely on it.

Long run times are normal in cold weather, since a heat pump often runs steadily at lower output. But constant running with poor comfort can point to an undersized system, weak airflow, low charge or a defrost fault. Compare to how it behaved in earlier winters and tell us what changed.

Clear snow gently by hand or with a soft broom from the top and sides, and keep drifts away from the unit. Do not chip at ice or use hot water, which turns back into ice. If the unit stays iced over after you clear it, switch to backup heat if you have it and call us.

Dust on electric backup elements can burn off the first time they run after a long break. A light, brief smell is common. A strong or lasting smell, or a hot plastic odour, is not. Turn the system off and call us. If you smell gas, leave and call 911.

Possible causes include a dirty filter or coil, low airflow, a failed capacitor, a reversing valve problem, low charge from a leak or a thermostat setting. We start with the simple causes, then test electrical and refrigerant-side readings. Check that the thermostat is in cool mode and the filter is clean.

A whoosh as the system enters or leaves defrost is normal, because the reversing valve shifts and refrigerant flow changes. A steady hiss can point to a refrigerant leak, and loud scraping or buzzing is not normal. Note when the sound happens and call us if it persists.

No. The Ontario Home Renovation Savings help page says heat pump replacements are not eligible, and that a home with an existing heat pump for space heating does not qualify. If your unit cannot be repaired, replacement is still possible, but plan for it without the rebate. Program rules and funding can change, so check the program help page before you decide. See heat pump installation for how we plan a replacement.

Warranty terms differ by manufacturer, registration and who did the work. Check your paperwork before repairs. Tell us the model and serial number from the data plate, and we help you understand what to ask the manufacturer. Keep invoices and service records.