Your heat pump works tirelessly to transfer heat from the outdoor air into your home when temperatures drop. This process keeps your energy bills low and your home comfortable all year. But when your heat pump freezes in winter, that comfort (and efficiency) can quickly disappear.
So what you do when your heat pump freezes is set your heating system to Auxiliary (also called Emergency Heat). This is to make sure you stay warm while waiting for a technician.
It’s always best to bring in a professional when you have issues with your heat pump a simple reset can’t solve. As an HVAC expert in Troutdale, we’ve seen countless homeowners panic when they discover their heat pump frozen in winter.
Why do heat pumps freeze in winter?
In winter, it’s common for homeowners to have trouble with their heat pumps freezing, frosting over, or collecting ice. When temperatures fall below freezing, the outdoor unit can gather frost or ice. This can cause the heat pump to freeze up.
Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one place to another, providing both heating and cooling for your home. In winter, the heat pump absorbs heat from the outdoor air and transfers it indoors.
Thankfully, a heat pump frosting up in winter is often a normal part of its operation. However, when ice builds up excessively or doesn’t clear on its own, it’s time to take action.
Normal Frost vs. Problematic Ice Buildup
Light frost on your unit during winter operation is completely normal and expected. However, when you notice thick ice encasing the entire unit, ice formations block airflow, or frost that persists despite defrost cycles, you’re dealing with a frozen heat pump that needs attention.
Common Signs of a Frozen Heat Pump
- Reduced heating performance with weak or cold airflow
- Visible frost or ice on the outdoor unit
- Increased energy bills
- Strange noises coming from the heat pump
- Water leaking from or pooling around the unit
Steps to Solve Heat Pump Freezing Issues
1. Check the defrost cycle.
If your heat pump is frosting up or freezing, first check if the defrost cycle is working correctly. The defrost cycle should activate periodically to melt any ice buildup on the outdoor unit.
2. Clear any snow and ice.
If your heat pump is covered in snow or ice, gently remove the accumulation to allow proper airflow. Be careful not to damage the unit or its components while clearing the snow and ice.
3. Get proper airflow.
Reduced airflow can contribute to your heat pump freezing up in winter, so keep the area around your outdoor unit clear. Remove any debris, plants, or objects that might block airflow.
4. Check the refrigerant levels.
Low refrigerant levels can cause your heat pump to freeze. If you think there’s a refrigerant leak or wrong charge, call a professional HVAC technician to check and fix it.
5. Schedule regular maintenance.
Regular heat pump maintenance helps avoid freezing problems and keeps it running well. Schedule yearly maintenance with a reliable HVAC company, like Multnomah Heating, Inc., to keep your heat pump running well and help spot problems early.
Just please note that for a Multnomah Heating, Inc. HVAC technician to work on the unit, the ice must fully defrosted so it can be properly looked at and diagnosed.
Your Experts in Heating
If your heat pump continues to freeze up despite your efforts, or if you’re unsure how to handle the situation, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician. We can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs to get your heat pump back in working order.
At Multnomah Heating, Inc., our expert technicians are ready to tackle any freezing issues with your heat pump. We offer prompt, reliable service to restore your comfort and peace of mind. Get started today by reaching out to our team.
