If you’ve noticed ice forming on your condo heat pump, you’re not alone. Ice buildup on a condo heat pump is not uncommon, but it’s important to understand why it happens and how to mitigate or deal with this problem when it occurs.
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What to Do When You First Notice Ice build Up Your Condo Heat Pump?
- Turn off the system or turn change the setting on your thermostat to Fan Only. This will allow the ice to slowly melt
- The water generated from ice melt down will eventually go down the drain but it can also overflow from your system cabinet. Therefore, use few towels around your unit to prevent water leak damage.
Common Causes of Ice Build-Up on Condo Heat Pumps
Limited Air Circulation or lack of Airflow are common causes of ice build-up on Condo Heat Pumps. Other reasons can be mechanical or electrical problems related to heat pump cabinet or building water flow problems.
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3 Easy Ways to Prevent Ice Formation on Your Condo Heat Pump
- Check Filter: Dirty filter is one of the major causes of ice formation on heat pump evaporative coil. How Clogged Air Filters Causes Condo Heat Pump Performance? Dirty filter block return air flow and the system will react by forming an ice. As air filters are clogged with dust and debris, the system restricts the airflow that goes through it. Therefore, the heat pump absorbs a minimum heat since no air is coming back for reconditioning. The lack of heat absorption causes the evaporator coil to become excessively cold, thus providing the ideal conditions for condensation to freeze. So, the frozen evaporator coil is formed, leading to the ice to form.
- Airflow Problems: When When you turn on the system, check to see if the there is air coming out from the vents. This is important because, lack of airflow will also cause ice build up for the same reason mention above. Check all the vents in your home to ensure they are open and allowing air movement in your condo.
- Blocked Air Circulation: I’ve seen many homeowners keep their furniture in front of HVAC access panel. This is a common issue because it restrict air circulation and causes excessive pressure on the system efficiency & performance.
Hidden Causes of Ice Build-Up on Condo Heat Pumps
Other than air flow circulations which is more apparent, there are other reasons for heat pump ice build up problems.
- Low Refrigerant: Insufficient refrigerant can cause ice buildup. This is a mechanical issue that requires a licensed technician for inspection and repair.
- Building Water Problems: Condo heat pumps rely on building water for heat exchange. Winter ice buildup could signal issues with water flow or temperature.
- Blower motor Problems: Faulty fan motors lead to either no airflow or insufficient air being drawn out from the heat pump chassis. Therefore, your heat pump coil will form extra condensation and ultimately ice build up on the chassis.
When Should You Worry About Ice on Your Condo Heat Pump?
If ice formation is keep happening after you checked for all the potential airflow problems then you most likely need a condo HVAC technician to properly inspect your heat pumps for mechanical malfunctions.
Need To Upgrade Your Equipment?
No Heat, No Cool or No Hot Water? We Can Help!
When Should You Worry About Ice on Your Condo Heat Pump?
If ice formation is keep happening after you checked for all the potential airflow problems then you most likely need a condo HVAC technician to properly inspect your heat pumps for mechanical malfunctions.
Condo Heat Pump Freezing Can Lead To Leaks & Floor Damage
Ice build up on your heat pump system can lead to potential leaks and potential floor damage after the ice is melted. Make sure you use towel to dry the floor. Also keep the fan on “ON” to expedite the melting process.
