One of the most common reasons why people call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air is because they notice ice building up on their air conditioners. If your HVAC unit freezes up, it can affect the system’s performance and prevent your home from reaching a comfortable temperature. What exactly causes this issue, and how do you fix it?
Our experts are here to break down everything you need to know. Check out the top reasons for ice formation on your HVAC system and steps we can take to restore your equipment so this problem doesn’t keep happening.
Top Five Causes of a Frozen Air Conditioning Unit
When your air conditioner freezes up, figuring out the source of the problem can be a challenge. Several factors may be to blame. Run through the list below to identify the culprit and discover tips for resolving the problem.
1. Blocked Ducts or Vents
Airflow restriction is one of the main causes of frozen HVAC equipment. If you notice ice forming around your unit and your indoor air feels warm or muggy, make sure the vents are open. Airflow problems can arise when the vents are closed or blocked by furniture or other large objects.
A blockage inside your duct system may also be to blame. A technician can inspect the ducts for any obstructions or damage and perform the necessary repairs. Don’t delay repairing leaky ducts, as they can make your system less energy efficient.
2. Clogged Air Filters
When an HVAC unit freezes up, one of the first things technicians check is the system’s air filter. Dirty filters block airflow, which can lead to a wide range of performance problems. Of the many possible causes of frozen air conditioners, this is one of the easiest to fix on your own.
Swap out the old filter with a new one and check it periodically. Experts recommend changing the filter every three months. However, some households need to replace the air filter more frequently based on how many people live there, if they have pets, and other factors.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant leaks are a major problem that HVAC technicians need to fix. Without enough refrigerant, your unit can’t effectively absorb heat and transfer it outside of your home. As a result, your indoor air remains warm and uncomfortable.
The reduced pressure within the system can cause any remaining refrigerant to become too cold. The HVAC unit freezes up when this happens. Hire a professional contractor to inspect the refrigerant level and repair a leak before the problem worsens.
4. Dirty Evaporator Coils
Refrigerant travels through the evaporator coil and absorbs heat inside your home. If the coil becomes covered with dust or dirt, the debris insulates it, preventing the refrigerant from absorbing heat. Without capturing any of the heat, the cold refrigerant inside can cause the coil to freeze.
Reach out to a qualified technician if your HVAC unit freezes up regularly. A quick inspection may lead them to find a dirty evaporator coil in need of cleaning. Once you remove all of the debris from the surface, the refrigerant should travel throughout the system without issue.
5. Clogged Condensate Lines
In addition to transferring heat outside of your home, air conditioners absorb moisture to reduce indoor humidity levels. Under normal operations, the system releases the moisture through the condensate drain line. However, the drain could clog with sludge or algae.
A blockage sets the stage for the following issues, creating a snowball effect:
- Condensation buildup begins filling the drain pan.
- The drain pan soon overflows.
- Standing water covers some of the evaporator coil.
- Water insulates the coil, prevents heat absorption, and causes it to freeze.
Look for puddles of water around your unit. If you find water dripping from the drain pan and ice crystals along the coil, it’s a telltale sign that your condensate line is blocked.
What To Do When Your HVAC Unit Freezes Up
Dealing with an ice-covered HVAC system can be frustrating. The problem may recur if you don’t take the proper steps.
At the first sign of ice, turn off the system. Continuing to use your air conditioner while part of the coil is frozen can lead to long-term damage. Shut off its power and let the ice thaw naturally, or expedite the process with a hair dryer.
Make sure that your vents are open and that your air filter isn’t clogged. If ice forms the next time you use your system, take it as a sign to call a professional for air conditioning repairs.
How To Prevent Your Air Conditioner From Freezing
“My HVAC unit freezes up whenever I use it. How can I keep this from happening?” You’re not the only person to ask this question.
Frozen evaporator coils often stem from a lack of HVAC maintenance. If it’s been a while since your system’s last tune-up, schedule a maintenance service right away. Technicians will go through a lengthy checklist to keep your system at its best, including:
- Checking thermostat settings and wires
- Replacing filters
- Inspecting air ducts
- Cleaning dirty coils
- Lubricating moving parts
- Topping off low refrigerant levels
- Performing on-the-spot repairs
- Testing overall function
Routine HVAC maintenance can not only prevent ice formation but also reduce the risk of mechanical breakdowns. You’ll enjoy more reliable, energy-efficient performance and even extend the life of your equipment by prioritizing tune-up services. Save money in the long run and book a maintenance inspection today.
Professional Help Is Available When Your HVAC System Malfunctions
When your HVAC unit freezes up, don’t ignore it. Reach out to Cooper’s Plumbing & Air for professional repairs and HVAC system maintenance. Our licensed technicians have solutions to all of the issues mentioned above and can keep your equipment in excellent condition.
Say “goodbye” to the days of frozen coils, poor airflow, and other HVAC problems. We’re here to improve your system’s performance and provide peace of mind. Contact our team at (866) 464-7132 to request an air conditioning repair or maintenance service.