Test A/C function of heat pump in winter?

[Matt Fellman]

So, we don't run air-conditioners below 65 but heat pumps run and go through reverse cycles in the middle of winter which is basically running the A/C, right?

Is it okay to test the A/C function of a heat pump in the middle of winter? Around here it's not unheard of to have temperatures below freezing during the day. So, if it is okay, is there a temp where it's not a good idea?

[Jerry Peck]

Is it okay to test the A/C function of a heat pump in the middle of winter?


Yes. Heat pumps will have the heaters in the compressors. Some a/c only units will also have heaters in the compressors, but heat pumps will, otherwise it would not be safe to operate the heat pump at those temperatures.

[Vern Heiler]

Matt, heatpumps and A/C units are different animals. If you look inside the heatpump outdoor unit you will see a large can looking thing in the suction line before the compressor. That can is an accumulator which collects any liquid refrigerant before it gets to the compressor.

The problem that can occure with an A/C condensor is the refrigerant will migrate from hot to the cold, from the indoors to the outdoors in the winter. When this happens it condenses at the suction to the compressor and if it starts it can break things. Liquid don't compress good!

[Matt Fellman]

Thanks guys... I'm embarrased to be asking this after 10 years in the biz.... I really don't see many heat pumps up here in the cold Pac NW. Really, just when I'm off the natural gas grid.