Why Are Your AC Coils Freezing Up?

If your AC runs but does not blow cold air, or you notice visible ice around the system's coils, those are some signs of frozen AC coils. And in that case, the AC cannot cool your space adequately, so you will likely be stuck in an uncomfortable room.

Frozen AC coils also put your entire cooling system at risk of damage and costly repairs. So you must proactively rectify the problem to restore the air conditioning system's efficiency. But first, understand the root of the issue and what to do.

Dirty Filters

The air conditioning unit needs constant airflow to function optimally. But the air must first pass through the air filters to remove dirt, dust, and pollen.

After prolonged use, the pollen and dirt may accumulate and block the air filters. Consequently, air cannot pass through the filters freely. That means the evaporator coil cannot absorb heat from the air drawn from your space, causing the coil to freeze.

Besides frozen coils, you can tell if your AC filters are dirty if you notice a sudden decrease in indoor air quality and if the energy bills spike unexplainably. The solution is to replace the filter with a new one and check periodically for dirt accumulation.

Thermostat Problems

The thermostat regulates the temperature of your space to ensure comfort. This component determines when to turn the AC unit off and on. But if the thermostat is incorrectly calibrated or damaged, the AC may run for extended periods. That may strain the system and cause the coils to freeze up with time.

You can know your thermostat is not performing optimally when you notice a difference between the temperature you set and the AC output in your space. Reset the readings or set the thermostat to auto settings to solve the issue.

If that step does not correct your problem, you may have more severe issues, and it's best to let a professional handle the rest.

Blocked Condensation Line

The air conditioning system features a condensation line that drains moisture from the unit. But over time, debris may accumulate on the system to cause a blockage and restrict the proper water flow from the cooling unit.

If water cannot flow out, it will back up the system. And if you don't solve the problem soon enough, the moisture sits on the coils and causes the component to freeze.

Furthermore, the accumulated moisture may cause an unpleasant odor from the unit. Alternatively, you may notice visible moisture droplets around the indoor unit.

A dirty condensation line is a complex problem that requires the help of an expert. An HVAC specialist will inspect the system and identify and clear the blockage to ensure proper moisture drainage from your cooling unit.

Low Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a chemical that absorbs heat from air passing through the unit, then releases the heat to ensure a cool environment. However, the process requires high pressure to work correctly.

If the refrigerant level is too low, perhaps due to leaks, it will cause a pressure drop. Consequently, the refrigerant absorbs too much heat. This issue translates to too much cold air for the evaporator coil, which increases the risk of freezing.

If you suspect the low refrigerant level is due to leaks, contact a professional for immediate repairs. The refrigerant harms the environment, and the issue may sometimes put you on the wrong side of the law if you don’t take care of it promptly.

Above are some common reasons why your AC coils may freeze up. Pay attention to the signs of damage and invest in repairs before minor issues escalate to expensive repairs. Also, let an expert conduct regular maintenance checks to help keep the system efficient all year round.

You can trust us at Comfort Technology Heating & Air Conditioning for all your air conditioning repairs and maintenance needs. We offer affordable yet high-quality services to exceed your expectations. Contact us for a consultation.