What to Do When Your Outdoor Heat Pump is Covered in Ice
If you’ve stepped outside and noticed your heat pump is covered in ice, you’re not alone. This is a common issue, especially during the colder months in Parksville, where fluctuating temperatures and high humidity can lead to excessive frost buildup. While it’s normal for a heat pump to develop some ice, too much can cause performance issues and even system failure. If your heat pump isn’t working due to ice buildup, here’s what you need to know and how to fix it.
Why is My Heat Pump Covered in Ice?
Heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently even in cold weather, but they rely on a built-in defrost mode to prevent excessive ice accumulation. When working properly, your heat pump will periodically switch into defrost mode, melting away frost and allowing it to continue heating your home. However, if ice is completely covering your outdoor unit, something isn’t working as it should.
Here are some common reasons why your heat pump might freeze up:
✔️ Defrost mode failure – Your heat pump isn’t switching into defrost mode properly.
✔️ Restricted airflow – Leaves, snow, or debris are blocking airflow, making it harder for the system to remove ice.
✔️ Refrigerant issues – Low refrigerant levels can lead to inefficient heat exchange, increasing the likelihood of freezing.
✔️ Drainage problems – If water from melted frost can’t drain away properly, it can refreeze around the base of the unit.
✔️ Extremely cold weather – Heat pumps work best in moderate temperatures, but prolonged extreme cold can challenge even the best systems.
What to Do if Your Heat Pump is Frozen
- Check for Airflow Blockages
If your heat pump is covered in ice and not working, start by clearing away any obstructions. Remove leaves, snow, and any other debris around the unit to allow proper airflow. If heavy snow has built up around the base, carefully clear it away with a soft brush or broom.
- Switch to Emergency Heat Mode
If your heat pump is struggling and not defrosting properly, switch your thermostat to emergency heat mode (also called auxiliary heat). This will bypass the heat pump and use your backup heating system (if you have one) to warm your home while you troubleshoot the issue.
- Manually Defrost the Unit
If your heat pump is completely frozen, you may need to help it out. Here’s how:
🚫 DO NOT use sharp objects to chip away ice—this can damage the coils.
🔥 DO NOT pour hot water on the unit—sudden temperature changes can crack components.
Instead:
✅ Turn off the heat pump at the thermostat.
✅ Use a garden hose with lukewarm water to gently melt the ice buildup.
✅ Let the system sit for a few minutes before turning it back on.
If the heat pump starts working normally after this, keep an eye on it over the next few days to see if the issue returns.
- Inspect the Outdoor Fan
A malfunctioning fan can prevent proper heat exchange, leading to excessive ice buildup. If your heat pump isn’t defrosting and you notice the fan isn’t spinning, it’s time to call a heat pump technician in Parksville for a professional inspection.
- Check Your Air Filter Indoors
Your indoor air filter plays a role in the efficiency of your heat pump. A clogged filter reduces airflow, which can cause the system to work harder and increase the chances of freezing. Change your filter if it’s dirty and make sure all vents are open inside your home.
- Call a Professional If the Problem Persists
If your heat pump continues to freeze up, it may have a more serious issue, such as a defrost control failure, low refrigerant levels, or a faulty sensor. This isn’t something you should attempt to fix on your own.
At Norm’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, our expert heat pump techs in Parksville can quickly diagnose and resolve frozen heat pump issues, ensuring your system runs smoothly all winter long.
How to Prevent Your Heat Pump from Freezing in the Future
✔️ Keep the area around your heat pump clear – Check for obstructions regularly.
✔️ Schedule routine maintenance – A professional HVAC tune-up can ensure everything is working correctly.
✔️ Ensure proper drainage – Pooling water under the unit can refreeze and create ice buildup.
✔️ Monitor defrost cycles – If your unit isn’t switching into defrost mode, call a technician.
Need Heat Pump Repairs in Parksville? We’re Here to Help!
A frozen heat pump is a frustrating issue, but with the right troubleshooting steps and regular maintenance, you can keep your home warm all winter long. If your heat pump isn’t working properly, don’t wait for the problem to get worse—give us a call today!
👉 Contact Norm’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for expert heat pump services in Parksville and Nanaimo. Our licensed technicians will ensure your heating system runs efficiently and keeps you comfortable all season long.
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