This paper proposes a mathematical model for predicting the frosting performance on a fin-tube heat exchanger. The model consists of empirical correlations of average heat transfer coefficients for the plate and tube surfaces and a diffusion equation inside the frost layer. The numerical results are compared with experimental data for the frost thickness, the frosting rate and the heat transfer rate to validate the proposed model. The results are in good agreement with the experimental data, and show that this model can be applied to predict frosting performance of common fin-tube heat exchanger.