You wake up, turn on your heat pump, and… cold air? Don’t panic. Many homeowners across Victoria and Vancouver Island experience this — and most of the time, it’s not a serious problem.
Here’s what’s actually happening, when to worry, and what you can do about it.
❄️ Common (and Normal) Reasons for Cold Air
1. The System Just Started Up
- Heat pumps take longer to warm up than gas furnaces
- Air feels cool initially, even when it’s heating
- ✅ Wait 10–15 minutes before judging
2. You’re in a Defrost Cycle
- Outdoor unit freezes in cold/damp weather
- System briefly reverses to cooling mode to defrost
- ✅ It should resume heating in 2–10 minutes
3. Thermostat Is Set to “Auto”
- Auto mode may switch between heat and cool
- ✅ Set mode to “Heat” manually for consistent warmth
🚨 Signs Something Might Be Wrong
- ⚠️ Cold air continues after 20+ minutes
- ⚠️ Outdoor unit is covered in ice
- ⚠️ No air at all is blowing
- ⚠️ Loud buzzing or clicking sounds
- ⚠️ Strange smells or breaker tripping
In these cases, it’s time to call for service.
🛠️ What You Can Check Before Calling Us
- ✅ Thermostat set correctly
- ✅ Clean air filter (change every 1–3 months)
- ✅ Outdoor unit is clear of snow, leaves, or debris
- ✅ No tripped breakers in panel
Still no heat? AE Electric can help.
📍 We Service All of South Vancouver Island
We repair and maintain ductless and central heat pumps in:
- Victoria, Oak Bay, Saanich
- Langford, Duncan, Cowichan
- Mill Bay, Nanaimo & nearby
📞 Book a Heat Pump Diagnostic Today
AE Electric Ltd provides expert service and fast repairs across Vancouver Island. We’ll identify the issue and get your home warm again — fast.