Have you noticed ice forming on your heat pump unit in the middle of summer? Does your home feel warm and stuffy even though your heat pump is running? It might seem strange, but a heat pump freezing up during the hottest months is actually a common occurrence. 

In this blog from Doc Dancer Heating & Air, we’ll explain what causes a heat pump to freeze in summer, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when to call for a professional heat pump repair.

 

Common Causes of Heat Pump Freezing in Summer

Heat pumps work hard to cool your home by absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside. Similar to condensation forming on a cold glass, moisture condenses on the evaporator coil (located indoors) during this process. However, under certain circumstances, this moisture can freeze instead of evaporating normally. Here’s when this is more likely to happen:

Poor Airflow

When was the last time you replaced the air filter in your home’s HVAC system? If the answer is never, or last year, then you are way overdue. Replace your air filters every 90 days to ensure proper airflow to your unit. If you use a filter media, you should replace that annually in most cases. The lack of airflow from a dirty air filter can cause your air conditioner coil to freeze. Doc Dancer can help you find the proper filters for your home and set you up with regular deliveries from FilterFetch.

Your Evaporator Coil Is Too Dirty

Your heat pump works by absorbing the heat with a cold refrigerant that runs through your evaporator coil. When this coil gets dirty, it has a hard time cooling the air, which may be the reason your heat pump is freezing. You can clean it yourself, but it is a dirty job. If you mess up, you may cause more damage to the heat pump, so it’s best to leave it to the air conditioning professionals.

The Heat Pump Is Running Low On Refrigerant

When your refrigerant levels are low, your system’s pressure will drop, which causes the coil to become colder than usual. This is the most common reason for heat pumps freezing up in the summer.

Defrost Cycle Malfunction

Heat pumps have a defrost cycle that melts ice buildup on the evaporator coil during heating mode. If this cycle malfunctions, ice can accumulate and cause the coil to freeze in cooling mode.

 

Why a Frozen Heat Pump is Bad News

Ignoring a frozen heat pump can quickly snowball into bigger problems. A frozen coil forces your heat pump to work overtime, leading to higher energy bills and increased wear on the system. This translates to less energy efficiency and potentially reduced comfort in your home, with uneven cooling or a lack of cold air. 

Even worse, if left unchecked, a frozen heat pump can lead to major malfunctions like compressor failure. This worst-case scenario can result in expensive heat pump repairs or even a new heat pump installation.

 

How to Troubleshoot a Frozen Heat Pump

Wait! Before you call an HVAC contractor, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot a frozen heat pump to save money and time:

  1. Turn off the heat pump and let it defrost naturally. This can take several hours, so be patient. Don’t run the heat pump in defrost mode, as this is for heating operation, not defrosting ice buildup during cooling.
  2. Check your air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow over the evaporator coil.
  3. Inspect the vents around your home and make sure they’re open and unobstructed.
  4. Once the ice has melted, turn the heat pump back on and monitor its performance.

 

When to Call for Professional Heat Pump Repair

While the troubleshooting tips might offer a temporary fix, there are situations where a professional touch is essential for your heat pump’s health. Here are some key signs indicating it’s time to call a professional heat pump service:

  • Lingering Ice: Even after several hours of being turned off, the ice on your heat pump hasn’t melted. This suggests a deeper issue with your heating and cooling system that requires professional diagnosis and repair.
  • Unusual Noises: Your heat pump is producing strange noises you haven’t noticed before. Grinding, clanging, or any unfamiliar sounds could signal internal problems best addressed by a qualified technician.
  • Persistent Warmth: Despite your troubleshooting efforts, your home continues to feel warm and stuffy due to a lack of cool air circulation. This persistent discomfort indicates the heat pump isn’t functioning correctly and needs professional attention.
  • Suspected Refrigerant Leak: If you suspect a leak in the refrigerant lines, don’t attempt to fix it yourself. Refrigerant leaks require specialized equipment and handling by a professional heat pump service.

A professional technician will have the tools and expertise to diagnose the cause of your frozen heat pump and ensure it’s working properly. In some cases, repairs might be sufficient to get your system back up and running efficiently. However, if the damage is extensive or your heat pump system is nearing the end of its lifespan, the technician might recommend a heat pump replacement.

 

Doc Dancer: Your Heat Pump Repair Specialists in Fort Wayne, IN

For over 75 years, Doc Dancer Heating & Air has been the trusted source for heat pump services in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and the surrounding area. Our team of NATE-certified technicians boasts a wealth of experience, specializing in everything from heat pump repair to heat pump maintenance.

We tackle any heat pump challenge, including those pesky summer freeze-ups. Using advanced tools and our in-depth knowledge, we can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your system runs smoothly and delivers optimal performance all season long.

We go beyond repairs. At Doc Dancer, we believe in a proactive approach to heat pump care. That’s why we offer several heat pump services, including preventative maintenance plans like our Safety & Efficiency Agreement (SEA). 

This program includes routine tune-ups and system inspections to identify potential problems before they become major issues. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, extends the life of your heat pump, and ensures efficient cooling throughout the summer. You definitely don’t want hot air when it’s 95 degrees out!

But if your heat pump does freeze, don’t panic! Just give us a call or fill out our online form and we’ll get the issue taken care of ASAP. Schedule your heat pump repair in Fort Wayne, IN, today!