What is a common indicator of carburetor icing?

Carburetor icing is a phenomenon that can occur when the temperature and humidity conditions are conducive to ice formation in the carburetor, leading to restricted airflow and fuel delivery. Recognizing the indicators of carburetor icing is essential for pilots.

The increase in engine power is often a response to an initial loss of power due to icing. When ice builds up, the engine may initially lose power, but if the pilot applies carburetor heat, it can melt the ice and restore engine performance, resulting in an increase in power.

Decreased RPM is another sign that carburetor icing may be affecting engine performance. As ice accumulates, it can restrict the flow of air and fuel into the engine, which often leads to a drop in RPM, giving the pilot an indication that there may be a problem with the carburetor.

Rough engine performance is also a significant symptom of carburetor icing. The presence of ice can cause irregular airflow and fuel delivery, leading to uneven engine operation. This roughness can be a clear indicator that the carburetor is not functioning optimally due to ice formation.

All these factors—engine power increase (after the application of carburetor heat), decreased RPM, and rough engine performance—