HVAC Glossary

Reverse-Cycle Defrost

Last updated: June 9, 2026

The most common heat pump defrost method, which temporarily reverses refrigerant flow so the outdoor coil acts as a condenser and melts accumulated frost using heat from the refrigerant. During this cycle the indoor coil acts as an evaporator, which can cause a brief drop in supply air temperature.

← Back to Glossary