KeepRite Heat Pump: Force a defrost cycle or skip the 5-minute delay
Force a defrost cycle or skip the 5-minute delay on a KeepRite heat pump: Shorting the 2-pin FORCED DEFROST header for 5 seconds on a non-communicating system starts a defrost (communicating systems start it from the wall control). Full defrost if coil is 32 F or colder and outdoor air under 50 F; otherwise a short 30-second defrost.
Applies to: Communicating *SA/*SH and *CA/*CH heat pump outdoor boards
How to fix force a defrost cycle or skip the 5-minute delay: step by step
- Make sure the system is running a heating call
- Short the two FORCED DEFROST pins with a screwdriver for 5 seconds, then release
- To skip only the 5-minute start delay, short the pins briefly and release
- Quiet Shift compressor on/off delays are included in a forced defrost when enabled
If the unit shows an error code, look it up: KeepRite Heat Pump codes
Models
KeepRite *CA/*CH Two-Stage Communicating
*CH624*CH636*CH648*CH660*CH924*CH936*CH948*CH960
KeepRite *SA/*SH Single-Stage Communicating
Source: KeepRite ICP split A-C + HP (R-410A & R-22) Application Guideline and Service Manual 421 08 5400 04, Forced Defrost, p.44 and p.57. Written in our own words as a summary; always check the original manual.
General guidance for qualified technicians. The manufacturer's installation and service manual and local codes always take priority. Aurora Star Tech is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any equipment manufacturer; brand and model names are used only to identify equipment and belong to their owners.