How do you use a defrost cycle to remove the ice from the outdoor unit of a heat pump when the heat is running?

Answer 1

Heat pumps have a defrost provision built in to the outdoor unit. This may be a mechanical timer on older units. Newer units use an electric/ electronic system. If you are asking how you "use" it it sounds like it's broke. To "use" it I will explain how to put into an over-ride. Older timers have a motor that drives a cam that opens and closes microswitches. You would advance the shaft with a screwdriver to change states. The electronic units have a "test" setup with pins on a circuit board (defrost control board), that you would jumper. If a mechanical timer, check that the motor advances on its own. This will verify that the motor/ timer is good or bad. Most units have a thermostat or sensor that detects the presence of ice and begins the auto-defrost cycle. If all is good initiating it manually, see if the stat or sensor isn't bad. lc

Answer 2

Here is the link. http://www.hannabery.com/tip_month.shtml

Answer 3

If you are frosting excessively there is most likely a problem with the defrost control. Whatever type you have I have no way of knowing but start there.

Answer 4

Pour hot water along the seal

the most effective way would be to dry it by a dryer. It would work very fast.

Answer 5

either the sensor or the defrost board is bad or the system is low on refrigerant

Answer 6

Just to add to Olivia's answer, if the dryer doesn’t work or works too slow, soak a towel in hot water and rub it over the bottom seal, it should work too.