How Snow & Ice Affect Your Heat Pump

Unlike a gas furnace, which generates heat by burning fuel, a heat pump pulls warmth from the outside air—even in cold temperatures. But when snow and ice accumulate around the unit, it can restrict airflow and cause efficiency issues.

Common winter-related problems include:

❄ Blocked Coils & Restricted Airflow – If the outdoor unit is covered in snow or ice, it can’t pull in enough air to function properly.
❄ Frost Buildup – Heat pumps naturally enter a defrost cycle to melt frost, but extreme conditions can overwhelm the system.
❄ Constant Running or Reduced Heat Output – If your heat pump struggles to reach the set temperature, ice buildup could be causing inefficiency.
❄ Damage to the Outdoor Unit – Heavy ice accumulation can bend fan blades or damage internal components.

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Tips to Keep Your Heat Pump Running in Snow & Ice

✅ Keep the Area Around the Outdoor Unit Clear

After a snowfall, check your heat pump and gently clear away any snow buildup around it. Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow.

✅ Don’t Chip Away Ice Buildup

If ice forms on your heat pump, resist the urge to break it off. You could accidentally damage the coils or fins. Instead, try letting the unit’s defrost mode run—most heat pumps automatically go into defrost mode to remove frost buildup.

✅ Prevent Ice from Accumulating Above the Unit

If your heat pump is located under a roof overhang, snow or ice may fall onto it, causing excess buildup. Consider installing a small protective cover or awning (without restricting airflow).

✅ Check Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to water dripping onto the unit, which can freeze and create a thick ice layer. Make sure your gutters are clean and properly draining.

✅ Don’t Block the Defrost Cycle

If your heat pump enters defrost mode, you may notice steam rising from the unit or hear a temporary change in sound. This is normal—the system is melting frost buildup. Avoid interrupting this process.

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When to Use Emergency or Auxiliary Heat

If your heat pump is completely covered in ice, switching your thermostat to Emergency Heat (E-Heat) or Auxiliary Heat is the best option.

🔴 What E-Heat or Aux Heat Does: It bypasses the heat pump and relies on backup electric or gas heating to keep your home warm.

🔴 When to Use It: Only use E-Heat if your heat pump is frozen or restricted severely by snow buildup. Otherwise, your energy bills may increase significantly.

🔴 Switch Back to Normal Operation: Once the weather improves and the ice and snow clears, switch your thermostat back to normal heat pump mode to save energy.

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Need Help? Call the Experts!

If your heat pump isn’t working properly, don’t wait for an emergency! At Aire Solutions, we can inspect your system, clear ice buildup, and ensure everything is running efficiently. Give us a call today to schedule a service! 573-335-2665