Will Snow and Ice Damage Your Heat Pump in Frederick, MD?
Heat pumps are susceptible to damage from the frigid temperatures experienced during snow and ice storms in Frederick, MD. As a result, it’s important to know what kind of effect both can have on your heat pump. Here is a brief overview.
Ice Buildup
Snow and ice can cause an accumulation of frost on the outdoor coil of your heat pump. This can reduce its ability to absorb heat from outside, and it’s one of the common reasons heat pumps freeze up during Maryland winters. This also decreases efficiency and potentially leads to a system breakdown and the need for repairs.
2. The Risk of Refrigerant Leaks
The cold temperatures in winter can cause the refrigerant lines to become brittle and weak, leading to leaks that reduce performance or cause system failure. If your heat pump loses its ability to be energy efficient, it could be due to a refrigerant leak. Ensure that your chosen HVAC repair company has extensive experience with repairing refrigerant leaks and other common heat pump repair issues, as they can result in a number of health-related problems.
Deteriorating Performance
Heavy snowfall can also block airflow to the outdoor unit, restricting air circulation and reducing efficiency. While this is typically a temporary occurrence, repeated snowfall can cause permanent damage to your heating and cooling system.
Compressor Failure
The compressor, responsible for pressuring and circulating refrigerant, can become damaged in cold temperatures due to too much condensation on the coils. If your heat pump isn’t functioning properly, it may lead to a compressor failure or more extensive system damage.
If repeated winter issues have you rethinking the system entirely, our heat pump vs. furnace comparison can help you decide which option makes the most sense for a Frederick home.
The pros at Eric Smock Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. have over 35 years of experience maintaining, repairing, and installing heat pumps. We’ll be more than happy to help address your heating and cooling needs, including equipment issues due to severe weather. With our comprehensive service plans, we can keep your heat pump running smoothly throughout the year. Reach out to one of our Comfort Specialists today to schedule an estimate or a heat pump maintenance appointment.
