Keep your heat pump’s outdoor unit clear
The outdoor unit needs open airflow, so keep leaves and plants about 2 feet back and clear snow drifts, with the power off before you clean it; a little frost is normal, since heat pumps defrost themselves.
Homes with a heat pump or mini-split
- Time
- 15 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- How often
- Every 3 months
If you skip it
When snow, ice or debris blocks the airflow, the heat pump loses efficiency and strains to keep up.
Source: trane.com
How do I keep my heat pump’s outdoor unit clear?
Clark, Haven's home assistant, walks you through it for your home. Haven keeps it on your list and reminds you each time it’s due.
Track this for your homeIn this plan
Related basics
- Replace your HVAC filter15 min · Easy · Every 3 months · Homes with ducted heating or central air
- Check your AC condensate drain line20 min · Easy · Yearly · Homes with central air, a heat pump or a mini-split
- Get your heating system checked before winter1 hr · Call a pro · Yearly · Homes with a heating system
- Seal drafts around doors and windows1 hr · Easy · Yearly
