Most Florida homes heat with a heat pump, and most Floridians only run it a few weeks a year — so when it acts up, it's confusing. Here's what's normal and what isn't.
Normal: brief cold air during defrost
On cold, damp mornings the outdoor coil frosts over. The heat pump reverses for a few minutes to melt it, and the vents blow cool. That's expected.
Normal: air that feels cool but is heating
Heat pump air is typically 85–95°F — warmer than the room but cooler than body temperature, so it can feel lukewarm.
Not normal: no warm-up at all
If the house never gains temperature, the reversing valve, refrigerant charge, defrost board or auxiliary heat strips may have failed. That's a
heat pump repair call.
Not normal: auxiliary heat running constantly
An "Aux" indicator stuck on means the heat pump can't keep up and your electric bill is about to spike.
No heat at all
Check the breaker and thermostat, then call for
heating repair. Emergency service is available 24/7 during cold fronts.
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