I appreciate the wisdom everyone! I've only been in ice twice. The first time I was flying a Comanche at 6000, bases were at 4000 so I just descended below the clouds and was fine. The second time I was flying single pilot IFR at night in a 172. I had no idea what the tops were, but the bases were around 1700 AGL. I started to build some light rime and decided the trip wasn't worth it. Went back home and landed and flew the trip the next morning in clear skies. Both times I managed to accumulate no more than a trace of ice, but any ice makes me feel uneasy in a light GA airplane that isn't properly equipped.

I love the feedback and stories!

Scenario: I'm flying at night, pick up some ice on the climb and break out on top of the clouds. Will the ice sublimate away at night? Or do I need sunlight for that?