01/24/2026
What To Do With Your Heat Pump During an Ice or Snow Storm
If we get heavy freezing rain or significant snowfall, it’s a good idea to switch your heat pump to Emergency Heat temporarily—but only during the worst part of the storm.
Why?
When ice builds up on the outdoor unit faster than the defrost cycle can melt it, the system can get damaged. Emergency Heat keeps the outdoor unit from running so it can’t freeze over or strain itself.
What To do?
• Switch to Emergency Heat if the outdoor unit is icing up during heavy snow or freezing rain.
• Once the storm ends and temps are back above freezing, you should verify equipment is free of ice and debris. Once this has been checked you can switch back to normal heat operation.
• If you choose to cover the outdoor unit, only do it while the system is OFF. Remove the cover before switching out of Emergency Heat so airflow is never blocked.
We’re here to help everyone get through the storm safely and comfortably. Please keep the comments helpful and respectful.
Please reach out by phone or message us through our website for any additional information or instruction.
5409671306
Www.wayneshvac.com
Please be patient with our staff and other companies as well. Once the storm has cleared, we will do our best to help as many customers as we can.
Thank you and stay safe
David Fields
Wayne's Heating and Cooling - Louisa, VA
