What to Do When Your Heat Pump Freezes Up in Cold Weather

Cold winter weather in Woodbridge, Stafford, King George, Fredericksburg, and the surrounding Northern Virginia area can put extra strain on your heat pump. One of the most common winter issues homeowners experience is a frozen heat pump. While a small amount of frost can be normal, heavy ice buildup is not and can lead to system damage if ignored. Here is what you should know and what to do if your heat pump freezes.

Is It Normal for a Heat Pump to Have Ice on It?

Yes, light frost on the outdoor unit can be normal during cold or humid conditions. Heat pumps run a defrost cycle periodically to melt that frost.

However, solid ice buildup, ice that does not go away, or a unit completely encased in ice is a sign that something is wrong and needs attention.

Common Reasons a Heat Pump Freezes

Several issues can cause a heat pump to freeze in winter:

• Dirty or clogged air filters restricting airflow

• Blocked outdoor unit from snow, ice, or debris

• Low refrigerant levels

• A malfunctioning defrost control board

• Failing sensors or reversing valve issues

When airflow or refrigerant flow is disrupted, moisture freezes instead of melting during the defrost cycle.

What You Should Do Right Away

If you notice your heat pump freezing, take these steps:

1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter

A dirty filter is one of the most common and easily fixed causes. Replace it if it looks clogged or dusty.

2. Clear the Outdoor Unit

Remove snow, ice, leaves, or debris from around the unit. Make sure there is at least two feet of clearance on all sides.

3. Switch to Emergency Heat (If Needed)

If ice continues to build and your home is losing heat, switch the system to Emergency Heat and contact a professional. This uses backup heat while preventing further damage.

4. Do Not Chip Ice Off the Unit

Never use sharp tools or force to remove ice. This can damage coils and lead to expensive repairs.

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

You should contact a licensed HVAC professional if:

• Ice continues to form after clearing the unit

• The system is blowing cold air

• The unit will not enter defrost mode

• Your electric bills suddenly spike

• You hear unusual noises from the system

Frozen heat pumps often indicate an underlying mechanical or electrical issue that requires professional diagnosis. Please make sure the unit is thawed before the technician's arrival so they can properly diagnose and repair.

Preventing Heat Pump Freezing in the Future

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding winter breakdowns:

• Change air filters regularly

• Keep the outdoor unit clear year-round

• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance before winter

• Address unusual performance early

Routine service helps catch defrost issues, refrigerant leaks, and airflow problems before they turn into emergency calls.

Trusted Heat Pump Service in woodbridge, fredericksburg, stafford, and Surrounding Areas

At C.B. Lucas Company, we have decades of experience servicing heat pumps in Woodbridge, King George, Fredericksburg, Stafford, and surrounding Virginia communities. Our technicians understand how local winter conditions affect heat pump performance and know how to fix problems quickly and correctly.

If your heat pump is frozen or not keeping your home warm, contact us for reliable HVAC service you can trust.

Emergency service is available when weather conditions require it.