How to Treat a Frozen Heat Pump

In Michigan weather, the last thing you want to see is a frozen heat pump. Even with insulated covers or DIY wooden roofs, a heavy winter storm can still ice up your heat pump. This isn’t the only cause, however, as heat pumps can freeze due to low refrigerant levels, clogged air filters, and even from dirt build-up. Regardless, as soon as you notice a glacier forming on your heat pump, you’ll want to act quickly. Ignoring this very chilling issue can send your utility bills skyrocketing, as well as severely damage your heat pump – possibly beyond repair!

Fortunately, Iceberg Heating & Cooling is here to help! As the leading HVAC experts in Monroe, we’ve dealt with frozen heat pumps on numerous occasions. Follow these steps below to treat your frozen heat pump and get back the warmth for your home.

Shut off the System –

Using your circuit breaker, shut off power to the heat pump to avoid potential shock. In some homes, shut-off switches are located near the heat pump outside and can be used shut off power to your unit.

Locate the Source of the Problem –

Examine your heat pump to see where ice has formed.  Usually, ice will form around the coil but can also form inside the heat pump itself. Judging by the location of the ice, you’ll be able to determine some causes of your heat pump freezing.

For example, if you notice ice inside your heat pump, check to see if your gutters are overflowing and dripping water inside the coil. Winter storms and rain can freeze both the outside and inside of your heat pump and may be a major culprit. Additionally, inadequate airflow can prevent your heat pump from defrosting properly.

A freezing heat pump may also be from an internal issue. Low refrigerant levels, malfunctioning defroster, and loose connections can all cause your heat pump to freeze but are hard to diagnose. Instead, contact Iceberg Heating & Cooling to have a professional inspect your system and determine the best route to take.

If you’re able to find the source of the problem, you can further prevent freezing from occurring. However, don’t fret if you’re unable to locate it. Instead, perform these additional steps.

Clear any Objects or Debris –

Remove any leaves and debris around your heat pump to allow adequate air flow. Rub off any snow covering the heat pump but be careful not to damage the coils. If the ice is thin, you may be able to remove it without harming the heat pump.

Replace your Filter –

After clearing out your heat pump’s space, you must ensure its filter is in good condition. Check your filter and if you notice a large presence of clogs and build-up, perform a replacement. Adequate filters allow your heat pump to have a stronger airflow which helps the defrosting process.

Manually Defrost Your Heat Pump

Run warm water across the sides of your heat pump to begin thawing some of the ice. Do not attempt to use any tools or objects to crack the ice, as this can damage the coil and ruin your heat pump. Your heat pump comes equipped with an automatic defrosting function but try to clear some ice before attempting. Turn on the power to your heat pump and run the fan for about an hour. If your heat pump is unable to defrost, go to the next step.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

After you’ve defrosted your heat pump, or if were unable to, contact Iceberg Heating & Cooling to ensure it never happens again. Our affordable heat pump services help guarantee you receive ample heat with no frozen interruptions.

Have a frozen heat pump and need professional assistance quickly? Contact Iceberg Heating & Cooling today! Monroe homeowners deserve a fully functioning heat pump, especially with Michigan weather. Give us a call at 734-342-3420 to schedule an appointment and return your heat pump to working form.