Distribution network failures caused by icing have increasingly affected end-user reliability. To address this issue, this study investigated the application of alternating current (AC) short-circuit ice-melting techniques—commonly used in transmission systems—to distribution networks. A systematic analysis was conducted on how line length, ice-melting current, branch lines, and distribution transformers influence overvoltage distribution during device connection. Transient overvoltage and current variations under typical fault conditions were also examined. Results indicate that during AC short-circuit ice-melting, overvoltage decreases along the line, with the highest value occurring at the head end. Longer ice-melting distances led to a greater decline in voltage. Increasing the ice-melting current raised overvoltage at the head end but reduced it at the tail end, while conductor cross-section and outer radius affected the head-end overvoltage level. Branch lines at the head end and long branches at the tail end increased head-end overvoltage, whereas short tail-end branches decreased it. Distribution transformers reduced overvoltage magnitude without altering its distribution pattern. During faults, overcurrent occurred upstream of the fault location, with magnitude and fluctuation severity increasing toward the head end.This study provides practical insights for the design and implementation of ice-melting devices in distribution networks.