When the temperatures rise, the last thing homeowners expect to deal with is a frozen air conditioner system. Unfortunately, air conditioner freeze-ups can happen any time of the year. They often point to a larger problem with your air conditioning system.
It’s important for homeowners to understand that running a frozen air conditioning unit can cause more damage and lead to costly repairs. If your unit is frozen, turn it off and contact an HVAC technician. An expert will get to the bottom of the freeze-up and ensure that your air conditioner works properly all year long.
What Causes an Air Conditioner To Freeze Up?
The main reason that an air conditioner freezes up is due to insufficient airflow to the unit. However, an air conditioner can also freeze up because of low refrigerant levels.
If your air conditioning unit doesn’t get proper airflow, specifically from warm air across the evaporator coil, the entire system can freeze. Alternatively, low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze the system.
Restricted Airflow: Causes and Solutions
Air conditioning systems have a component called the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home and transferring it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant, which starts as a cold liquid, absorbs this heat and evaporates into a gas. This cooled air is then circulated back through your home, while the heated refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit to release the absorbed heat.
When the evaporator coil doesn’t have enough access to warm air, the refrigerant can drop to below freezing temperatures. This causes moisture to freeze on the evaporator coil, which creates a buildup of ice. Eventually, the ice freezes the entire air conditioning unit.
Clogged Air Filters
The number one cause of restricted airflow is clogged air filters. Dirty air filters block air from the evaporator coil, which reduces your system’s efficiency and can result in freezing.
To avoid or fix this issue, replace your air filters at least once every three months. Your filters may need to be replaced more often depending on usage.
Blocked or Closed Air Vents
Another cause of restricted airflow is blocked or closed air vents. Make sure all of your vents are open and clear of obstructions like furniture and curtains. If blocked vents are the culprit, your air conditioner is likely running but not cooling your home.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
A more complicated cause of restricted airflow is a dirty evaporator coil. If dust and grime collect on coils, they can act as insulation and block airflow. The best solution is to call in an HVAC specialist to clean your coils.
Faulty Blower Fan
Finally, a faulty blower fan can also restrict airflow. If you hear unusual sounds coming from your system or notice weak air flow, the blower may be the culprit. Consult with an HVAC professional about repairing or replacing your blower fan.
Low Refrigerant Levels: Causes and Solutions
Low refrigerant levels are another potential cause of your air conditioning system freezing up, but they are not nearly as common as airflow issues. Refrigerant absorbs heat from your home, and if the levels are too low, then the pressure inside your system will drop. This leads to your evaporator coil getting too cold and can result in a total system freeze-up.
A Leak in the System
The main reason your refrigerant levels drop is due to a leak in your system. Refrigerant circulates throughout your system and is reused over and over again, so if the level becomes low, it’s likely due to leakage.
This issue can be serious and should be dealt with quickly by licensed HVAC professionals. They can properly identify, test and repair leaks.
Improper Charging
Another potential cause of low refrigerant levels is improper charging. Essentially, the refrigerant levels may have been underfilled during installation or repair. An HVAC pro can determine if this is the issue you’re dealing with and address the problem.
Other Potential Causes of an Air Conditioner Freeze-Up
While restricted airflow and low refrigerant levels are the most common causes of air conditioner freeze-ups, there are some other less likely causes. First, your thermostat could be malfunctioning, which can cause your system to overcool and freeze.
Next, if the temperature outside is lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit, running your air conditioning at the same time can cause it to freeze.
Lastly, drainage issues, such as a blocked condensate drain, can create a water backup and freeze your evaporator coil.
What Should You Do When Your Air Conditioner Freezes?
The first thing you should do when your air conditioner freezes is to turn the unit off. This will allow the ice to melt and prevent further damage. You should also check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Additionally, make sure all of your vents are open and unblocked.
If those steps do not solve the problem and your air conditioner continues to freeze, contact an HVAC specialist. A technician can identify the underlying problem and find the right solution for your system.
How Do I Stop My Air Conditioner From Freezing Up?
The good news is that there are some simple steps that homeowners can take to stop their air conditioner from freezing up.
The best thing you can do is ensure proper airflow to your system. You can do this by changing your air filters regularly and ensuring your vents are open and unblocked. Another simple way to improve air flow is to clear debris around your outdoor air conditioner unit.
If your AC has good airflow, then the cause of the freeze-up could be a dirty evaporator coil. Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance can ensure that the coil stays clean and functioning properly.
A technician can identify the root cause of the freeze-up and any other HVAC issues, such as your AC not blowing cold air.
What Is the Most Common Reason for Low Refrigerant Charge?
What is a low refrigerant charge? Simply put, it means there isn’t enough refrigerant in your air conditioning system. Refrigerant is a chemical compound that absorbs heat from inside your home and helps cool the air before it’s recirculated.
Unlike gas in a car, refrigerant doesn’t get “used up”. It circulates in a closed loop. So if your system is low on refrigerant, it usually means there’s a leak. A lack of refrigerant can result in your AC not cooling enough.
Leaks can develop for many reasons, such as wear and tear on your system, corrosion and physical damage.
It’s important for homeowners to understand that adding more refrigerant to their system does not solve the problem. You must address and repair the leak so your system can maintain proper refrigerant levels.
If you suspect your system has a leak, contact an HVAC technician as soon as possible. An expert can find and repair the leak so that your system functions properly again.
Is It Bad for an AC To Freeze Up?
Your air conditioning system freezing up is bad because it often points to a bigger problem that needs to be addressed to keep your home cool. Plus, the longer you run a frozen air conditioning unit, the more damage it can cause.
Running a frozen air conditioner can cause permanent damage that can require costly repairs or full system replacements.
A frozen air conditioner can indicate several problems. These include reduced airflow, inefficient cooling, compressor damage and other signs of system issues. It’s important to know that the compressor is the heart of your air conditioning system, and running a frozen unit can cause it to overheat and break down.
If your air conditioner is frozen, turn the system off to reduce the risk of further damage. Then, call in an HVAC professional. A technician can identify the cause of the freeze and create a targeted solution.
Work With an HVAC Technician to Solve Your Frozen Air Conditioner Issues
A frozen air conditioner is the last thing that homeowners want to deal with when it’s hot outside. Luckily, the most common causes are easy to fix with the help of an HVAC technician.
In the best case scenario, the solution is as simple as replacing your air filters or unblocking your vents. However, you may be dealing with a leak, low refrigerant levels or another serious issue.
Working with a professional will prevent further damage to your air conditioning system and ensure your home stays cool.
ABC Can Keep Your AC Working Efficiently
Dealing with AC issues requires lots of technical know-how. Instead of trying to figure it out yourself, contact ABC Home & Commercial Services. Our HVAC professionals can efficiently diagnose your AC problem. They can also offer advice on when to replace your air conditioner.
