pipe entering air handler from heat pump is hot?? Is this normal?

[victor]

I have an outside heat pump and its air handler/blower is in my basement. I have noticed that there is a copper pipe and a small copper tube from the outside unit that enters the air handler where the finned coils are located below the blower. This copper pipe and tube is insulated with a foam cover but the pipes are exposed for about 2". During a cold spell, when the units are operating I have noticed that this copper pipe is hot, like a hot water pipe. Is this normal??? Is the outside unit producing so much heat?

Thanks for your help

[CBHVAC]

Umm... yea..thats how they work.

[Red Neckerson]

How do you think the house stays warm???

DUH.......

Fire HOT Snow COOOOOOOOOOOOOOld