Why is My Heat Pump Covered in Ice in Winter?

Heat pumps are highly efficient heating and cooling systems that can operate year-round. However, the arrival of winter in the Greater Montreal can bring several challenges, including the formation of ice on the outdoor unit. For you to benefit from optimal comfort throughout winter, it is important to remember to properly maintain your heat pump to minimize ice formation.
 

The Defrost Cycle of a Heat Pump

In winter, it is normal for ice to form on the outdoor unit of your heat pump in Montreal. Since in winter the heat pump is used to extract heat from outside, this often leads to condensation of the moisture in the air. This then freezes on the coil of the outdoor unit due to the cold.

To prevent excessive ice build-up, heat pumps are equipped with an automatic defrost cycle that is used to temporarily reverse their operation. Thus, the heat pump rejects heat rather than extracting it from outside. This helps to warm up the coil of the external unit, thus melting the ice.

Other Causes of a Frozen Heat Pump 

Aside from the normal defrosting cycle, here are some other factors that may explain the formation of ice on your heat pump in winter:

• A malfunction of the defrost cycle, probe, or map
• A malfunction of the unit’s reversible valves
• A leak of the refrigerant gas
• A malfunction of the unit’s fan
• Clogging in the filters
• The presence of debris within the outer coil 

How to Prevent Excessive Ice from Forming on Your Heat Pump?

Here are some solutions to minimize ice formation on your heat pump in Montreal:

• Cleaning or replacing indoor unit filters – Regular care of your heat pump’s indoor unit filters will help establish better air circulation, thus reducing excessive ice formation.

• Setting up an automatic defrosting system – This system is used to control the formation of ice on your heat pump. However, if you notice that the defrost cycle is triggered too often, we recommend calling in professionals without delay.

Heat Pump Sales and Installation in Montreal

Have you noticed an abnormal accumulation of ice on your heat pump in Montreal? Call on the team at Confort Expert! Our technicians will intervene quickly for the de-icing, maintenance, or repair of your unit. We also offer professional heat pump sales and installation services in the Greater Montreal. Contact us today for a free quote!