Blog ❄️ Heat Pump Frozen Over? What Maryland Homeowners Need to Know This Winter Dec 18, 2025

By Biddle’s Services — Woman-Led. Family-Run. Master-Level HVAC.

When temperatures drop and winter storms move through Maryland, it’s normal for your heat pump to develop a thin layer of frost. But when snow, ice, or freezing rain build up on the outdoor unit, your heat pump can freeze over completely — and suddenly your home isn’t heating the way it should.

A frozen heat pump is one of the most common winter calls we receive. The good news? Many issues are preventable, and when trouble does happen, our master-level technician can get your system running again quickly and safely.

Here’s what every homeowner should know.

Why Heat Pumps Freeze in Winter

Heat pumps work by moving heat from the outdoor air into your home — even when it’s cold outside. As they operate, moisture naturally gathers on the outdoor coil and can freeze in low temperatures.

This is normal, and your system is designed to handle it through an automatic defrost cycle.

But your heat pump may freeze too much when:

• Snow piles against or on top of the outdoor unit
• Freezing rain coats the fan and coil
• Debris blocks airflow
• The defrost cycle isn’t triggering properly
• The unit is running nonstop in very low temperatures

When this happens, your heat pump can’t breathe — and it can’t heat your home efficiently.

Signs Your Heat Pump Is Frozen Over

A little frost is okay. These signs are not:

• Ice covering the entire outdoor unit
• Outdoor fan not spinning
• Loud or unusual noises (scraping, grinding, buzzing)
• Constant running with little or no heat inside
• Steam appearing constantly (not just during a short defrost cycle)
• Home temperature dropping even while the system is on

If your heat pump looks like a block of ice, it needs attention.

What to Do (and NOT Do) If Your Heat Pump Freezes

Do:

✔ Check for snow piled around or on top of the unit

✔ Gently clear away loose snow from the top and sides

✔ Make sure the outdoor unit has at least 18–24 inches of open airflow

✔ Switch your thermostat to “Emergency Heat” temporarily if the home is getting too cold

Do NOT:

✘ Chip or break ice off the unit (this damages the coil and fins)

✘ Cover the unit — it needs airflow, even in winter

✘ Pour hot water onto the system

✘ Keep running the heat pump if the fan blade is frozen

When in doubt, shut the system off and call an HVAC professional.

How Biddle’s Services Can Help

As a woman-led, family-run business, we take pride in solving home comfort problems with clear communication, honesty, and master-level skill. Winter heating issues are stressful — we’re here to make the fix simple and straightforward.

Our master-licensed HVAC technician can:

• Diagnose why your heat pump froze
• Safely defrost the system
• Get your heat restored quickly
• Check your defrost cycle, airflow, and refrigerant levels
• Prevent repeat freezing with proper adjustments
• Evaluate whether snow, landscaping, or home layout is contributing

We serve Edgewater, Annapolis, Riva, Mayo, Davidsonville, and surrounding areas with fast, reliable winter service.

Stay Warm and Safe This Season

If your heat pump is frozen or your home isn’t heating properly, don’t wait for the next cold snap. Early action can prevent system damage and expensive repairs.

Tap “Call” on our Google Business Profile or send us a message to schedule service.

Biddle’s Services

Master-Level HVAC • Plumbing • Electrical

Woman-Led. Family-Run. Proudly Local.