Problem Solver

Heat Pump Icing in Lafayette, LA

Ice on a heat pump's outdoor unit during heating season is a different issue than a frozen AC coil in summer — a normal defrost cycle handles light frost, but heavy or lasting ice usually means something needs attention.

Call NILOV for Diagnosis Request Help

Common Causes

Normal light frost that a properly working defrost cycle clears on its own (not a problem by itself)
A failing defrost control board or sensor that stops the defrost cycle from running
Restricted airflow from a dirty filter or blocked outdoor unit
Low refrigerant charge
A malfunctioning outdoor fan not clearing frost between cycles
Ice building up faster than the defrost cycle can keep up with during unusually cold, humid weather

What You Can Safely Check

Check and replace the indoor air filter if it is dirty
Confirm the outdoor unit is not blocked by leaves, mulch, or debris
Watch whether the ice clears on its own within an hour or two during a normal defrost cycle, versus continuing to build up

When to Call NILOV

Ice keeps building up and does not clear through a normal defrost cycle
The outdoor unit looks heavily coated in ice rather than light frost
The system is not heating the home effectively while iced up

Dealing with this in your home?

Call NILOV. Tell us the symptom, your town, and what your system is doing.

Call (337) 450-8886 Request a Free Quote

Next Pages to Visit

AC Repair Heating Services AC Frozen Coil

FAQ

Heat Pump Icing Questions

Is some ice on my heat pump in winter normal?

Yes. Light frost that clears during a normal defrost cycle is expected. Heavy ice that does not clear, or ice that keeps returning quickly, is worth a call.

Is this the same as a frozen AC coil in summer?

No. Summer coil freezing usually involves the indoor coil and is caused by restricted airflow or low refrigerant. Heat pump icing happens on the outdoor unit in heating mode and is a normal part of operation until it becomes excessive.

Can I remove the ice myself?

Do not chip or scrape ice off the unit. Let the defrost cycle work, and call NILOV if the ice is not clearing on its own.