It might seem illogical that your air conditioner could freeze up, especially during warm spring and summer weather here in Austin. However, when you need to rely on your cooling system to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, a frozen system could render your unit inoperable.
When an AC unit freezes up, you’ll be able to see a buildup of condensation on the copper coils connected to your system. If the condensation builds up too much, full blocks of ice may form. Fortunately, solving the issue may be a relatively simple process that an experienced air conditioner technician can handle in no time. Read on to learn about why cooling systems freeze in order to identify which issue you may be dealing with.
Low Refrigerant
Your cooling system uses refrigerant to help regulate pressure within the coils. The compressor outside then converts warm air trapped by the refrigerant into a gas form which drops pressure once it heats up. The compressor finally converts the gas back into a liquid form and sends it into the fan inside to create cool air.
If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, it won’t effectively cool your home. A common indication of low refrigerant levels is a leak within the system. Depending on the extent of the leak, a certified air conditioner technician may be able to add more refrigerant to your system as a temporary fix. However, you should ultimately consider having the leak repaired as soon as possible to prevent the likelihood of other issues. In the long run, fixing a minor leak before it turns into a major leak will be more cost-effective.
Dirty Coils
Dirty coils can contribute to ice buildup, and this can ultimately obstruct efficient airflow. Your air conditioner is designed to pull moisture out of the air and dehumidify your home. As condensation is removed from the air, it can build up on the coils. In most cases, condensation will make its way into your drip pan. However, if the drip pan is too full, the condensation can remain on the coils and begin to freeze.
If your coils are dirty, the layer of grime on them can prevent condensation from absorbing fast enough, resulting in freezing. The best way to avoid this common issue is to schedule maintenance service from your HVAC professional at least once a year.
Clogged Air Filters
Your AC unit requires an ample amount of air to function properly. If your air filters are dirty or clogged, it could contribute to a lack of airflow. This lack of airflow may prevent your system from taking warm air from inside your home and using it to keep condensation from forming on your coils.
It’s important to inspect all of the air ducts inside your home to ensure that your unit is receiving enough airflow. You can simply hold your hand in front of each duct to verify that enough air is leaking from the sides. Then, make sure you change your air filters at least once every three months. Finally, check for blocked ducts, blocked dampers and closed grates.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat could cause your air conditioner to run non-stop. A thermostat that’s set too low could drop the condenser temperature to below freezing, too. If your AC unit is working too hard, the coils could easily freeze up. Here are a few signs that it may be time to replace your thermostat:
- Your thermostat is unresponsive
- Your AC unit runs constantly without shutting off
- The temperature of your home and the thermostat setting don’t match
What You Should Do If Your Air Conditioner Freezes Up
If you notice that your AC unit isn’t functioning properly, the first thing you should suspect is freezing. If your cooling system freezes up, turn it off immediately. Otherwise, if your air conditioning system continues to run, more ice will build up on the coils. Air conditioner ice buildup should be addressed as quickly as possible to prevent permanent damage to your unit.
After shutting your system off, let it defrost completely. If the situation is extreme, consider turning on the heater to facilitate the thawing process. Then, check your air filters. If they appear dirty or clogged, replace them. Sometimes, this step is all that’s needed to address the issue.
Feel free to contact the experts at Faught Service Company in Austin, TX, to learn how we can address freezing issues with your air conditioner. We’re dedicated to performing top-quality service, and we specialize in cooling, heating and duct replacement services.
