Ice buildup under heat pump

[ldsuhr]

I am looking for recommendations for how those of you with ducted heat pumps manage the ice buildup that happens from condensation UNDER the heat pump. Last winter, we carefully chiseled ice out of the way, but it was awkward, cold, and dangerous to the machine. What else have you done to combat this problem? Thanks in advance!!!

[Reapward]

We put down a thick rubber strip, at a slant, with concrete blocks (don't know the why of the blocks) on top of that, to help guide any melted water away from it. It still gets ice but not a large amount. And ours is not ducted, so don't know if that makes a difference.
That's about it.

[solarcold]

It is defrost cycle water, slope away, may need to clear manually as you have done occasionally

[ldsuhr]

Thanks Reapward and solarcold! Let me see what I can create in this small space. I wonder if there is just more defrost action going on as it is a ducted heatpump, not ductless. Maybe just need more slope?

[solarcold]

It is really no different for ducted or mini split. A hand held heat blower may be useful use with caution

[BenW]

My mini splits also do this too. A few times a winter I break up the ice with a rotatory hammer or pick axe