🩺 Troubleshooting
Heat pump not working properly? Describe your symptoms and get a diagnosis — before calling a
technician and paying an Ontario service call fee.
Answer 5 quick questions about your heat pump symptoms and get a likely diagnosis with recommended next steps.
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Note: This diagnosis is based on common symptom patterns and is for informational purposes only. A certified HVAC technician should inspect your system for an accurate diagnosis.
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GET FREE QUOTES| Symptom | Likely Cause | DIY or Pro? |
|---|---|---|
| Not heating / blowing cool air in winter | Defrost cycle, low refrigerant, thermostat issue | DIY (thermostat) / Pro (refrigerant) |
| Outdoor unit covered in heavy ice | Defrost failure, low refrigerant, airflow blockage | DIY check / Pro if persists |
| Short cycling (turns on/off frequently) | Oversized unit, dirty filter, refrigerant issue | DIY (filter) / Pro (refrigerant) |
| Loud banging or clanking noise | Loose fan blade, debris, failing compressor | Pro required |
| Not cooling in summer | Low refrigerant, dirty coils, thermostat | DIY (thermostat/coils) / Pro |
| High hydro bills | Low refrigerant, dirty filter, aging system | DIY (filter) / Pro (refrigerant) |
| Error code on display | Sensor, communication, or component fault | Check manual / Call Pro |
Light frost on the outdoor coil during Ontario winters, defrost cycle running every 30–90 minutes, ice melts within 15–30 minutes, system continues heating normally.
Unit completely encased in ice, fan blade frozen, ice not melting after 2+ hours, system running but not heating effectively — call a licensed Ontario HVAC technician.
Ensure no snow or debris blocks airflow around the outdoor unit, check that the indoor filter is clean, confirm thermostat is on HEAT mode, verify no tripped breakers.
Below –20°C, even cold-climate heat pumps work harder. If electric backup heat strips engage frequently, this is normal — it's a feature, not a malfunction.
Check and replace the indoor air filter if dirty (every 1–3 months depending on usage and pets). Ensure vents and registers throughout the home are open and unobstructed. Check that the outdoor unit is clear of leaves, grass clippings, snow buildup, and debris. Listen for any unusual noises during startup and operation.
In spring: gently rinse the outdoor coil fins with a garden hose (turn unit off first) to remove winter debris and cottonwood buildup common in Ontario. In fall: clear fallen leaves from around the outdoor unit and ensure the unit is level. Check refrigerant lines for visible damage or abnormal ice buildup outside of normal defrost operation.
Schedule an annual professional tune-up before winter — September or early October is ideal in Ontario. A licensed HVAC technician will check: refrigerant levels and pressures, indoor coil cleanliness, electrical connections and capacitors, defrost operation, thermostat calibration, reversing valve, and carbon monoxide safety if hybrid system.
Several causes: the system may be in defrost mode (normal — lasts 5–15 minutes), the reversing valve may be stuck, refrigerant may be low, or outdoor temps may be below the unit's rated range. If not defrost mode and it persists more than 30 minutes, call a licensed Ontario HVAC technician.
A whooshing sound when the system switches between heating and cooling modes is the reversing valve changing position — completely normal. Refrigerant flow sounds during startup are also normal. Loud banging, clanking, or grinding noises are not normal and require professional inspection.
Annual servicing is recommended, ideally in September before Ontario's heating season begins. The inspection ensures the defrost system, refrigerant levels, electrical components, and filters are all in top condition before winter. Many Ontario HVAC contractors offer annual maintenance plans.
A standard diagnostic service call in Ontario typically costs $100–$200 in Hamilton, Burlington, Kitchener, and surrounding areas; $150–$250 in the GTA. Annual maintenance tune-ups (non-emergency) typically run $150–$300. If refrigerant is needed, expect an additional $200–$500 depending on type and amount required.
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