Living in regions where ice and snow are not a rare thing in winter months creates certain challenges, especially for outdoor equipment like a heat pump. The piling up of snow or ice shield on your outdoor unit is more than just a visual concern — it can significantly impact its functionality and longevity. At our HVAC company Ready Refrigeration, we emphasize the criticality of maintaining a clean and ice-free outer unit. And this advice is based on years of our extensive experience in the field.
In this blogpost we would like to share five expert pieces of advice to highlight the importance of keeping your outdoor heat pump unit free from ice and snow buildup:
Preserving Heat Pump Coil Functionality
During winter, it's common for some frost or ice to develop on your heat pump. Luckily, the heat pump is equipped with a defroster to melt any ice accumulation. So, if you see your heat pump is in defrost mode and the ice is continuing to build up, switch it off and seek assistance from a technician.
Ice and snow accumulation can cause the coils of your outdoor unit to freeze, diminishing the unit's efficiency. This makes proper heat exchange more difficult and can potentially lead to severe problems for the compressor and associated parts.
Avoiding Covering the Unit in Ice Storms
While it may seem like a good idea to shield your heat pump during an ice storm, covering it can actually do more harm than good. If you are looking for any sort of barrier, we recommend using a snow cover to ensure unobstructed airflow around the unit.
Preventing Rust and Corrosion
Trapping moisture around the heat pump by covering it or allowing snow to accumulate can lead to rust and corrosion, potentially causing long-term damage. Regularly clearing away snow and ensuring unobstructed airflow helps prevent these issues, preserving the unit's structural integrity.
Maintaining Airflow for Efficiency
Your outdoor unit needs proper airflow to function efficiently. Clearing away snow and ice buildup ensures optimal airflow, allowing the heat pump to work effectively without unnecessary strain. Regularly check for any obstructions and promptly clear them to maintain airflow.
Professional Maintenance Services
Consider scheduling regular maintenance services with experienced HVAC professionals like Ready Refrigeration technicians. Our expertise allows us to thoroughly clean and inspect your heat pump unit, ensuring it remains free from ice and snow buildup and operates at peak performance levels.
At Ready Refrigeration we prioritize the durability and efficiency of your heat pump. Our wealth of experience in the HVAC industry enables us to provide valuable insights and services to help you safeguard your investment. Don't let winter weather compromise your heat pump's functionality—trust our experts for guidance and maintenance services to keep your unit in optimal condition.
