Heat pumps and outdoor units should be placed where there is a minimal chance of the unit getting covered by snow or snowdrifts.

In areas that do get a lot of snow, the condenser should be placed on a platform to raise it above normal snow accumulation. During higher than normal levels of snowfall, the area should be kept clear. Consider building a fence or a literal wall around your unit so snow can’t drift to cover it. Just make sure to allow for enough airflow on all sides.

Clear around the outdoor system. Shovel around your HVAC unit. Also make sure your gutters aren’t leaking water onto the unit, which will then freeze. With a little pre-season prep and some mindful monitoring, your appliances should make it through winter just fine.