Why it matters to you
On frosty Charleston mornings, steam rising from the outdoor unit with the fan paused is a normal defrost, not a fire or malfunction. A unit that stays encased in ice is a different story.
Practical guidance
Keep gutters from dripping onto the outdoor unit and keep the base clear so meltwater can drain. If the coil stays heavily iced for hours, call for service; never chip at ice or pour hot water on the coil.
