How to Remove Ice From a Heat Pump

It is hard to imagine using cold air to heat a home. With the help of electricity, heat pumps do exactly that by drawing in the cold air and sending it into the home as heat. (See Reference 3) During inclement weather, it is not uncommon for heat pumps to get covered in ice. The unit's defrost mode runs at regular intervals when temperatures reach a certain level to prevent this inconvenience. (See Reference 2) However, if icing of the heat pump does occur, it should be removed immediately so as not to cause damage to the unit.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Set the thermostat to "Emergency Heat."

   • 2

     Pour hot water over the unit to melt the ice.

   • 3

     Set the thermostat to a normal heating temperature when the ice has been removed.