Heat Pump Coil Freezing up

If you notice ice on your heat pump coils, it's cause for concern. In most cases, homeowners will need expert help when their coils receive an unusual amount of frost or ice. However, before contacting a professional, there are some steps you can take to resolve the issue.

When do coils freeze?

You might think that coils are only susceptible to freezing in cold conditions. While cold outside temperatures and accumulation of ice and snow are certainly conditions that can cause coils to freeze, they are not the only causes. In fact, in milder climates, frozen coils can also be common due to failed system components.

Why does this happen?

Frozen coils can be caused by a variety of reasons besides climatic factors. A small amount of frost on the coils is normal and the heat pump uses a defrost cycle to deal with it. If the refrigerant charge is low, the heat pump cannot effectively melt frost and frost will continue to accumulate. As ice surrounds the coil, it causes problems such as poor heating and cooling capabilities and reduced system efficiency.

How to deal with ice on heat pump coils?

Other causes of coil ice include improper airflow, dirt buildup, and component failure. If you notice ice forming on your coils, you should check:

1. Air filter.

If it's dirty, it will block the flow of air into the device or may allow dirt to get into the coils. Replace the filter and start the unit and wait to see if the defrost cycle executes.

2. Outdoor unit.

If old leaves or other vegetation accumulate around the unit, it may be blocking airflow to the condenser. Clear anything blocking the unit, then run the heat pump so the defrost cycle can remove the ice.

Other conditions that cause coils to freeze require professional help, such as dirty coils, a failed fan or motor, or a damaged sensor.

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