If your AC has suddenly decided to freeze up on you, we know that the idea of an AC unit freezing up during warm weather seems puzzling. But there are several reasons why your air conditioning system might freeze. Our experts at Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air are here to guide you through the common causes and offer solutions to troubleshoot your frozen AC unit.
Step 1: Stay Calm
It’s important to stay calm amidst the confusion. Don’t worry; you got this. Your trusted Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air family is here to help and provide the relief you need! Let’s figure this out together.
Step 2: Start Troubleshooting
Improper Airflow: Obstructed airflow can cause your AC unit to freeze if it can’t function properly. Cool air can build up due to clogged air filters or blocked vents, leading to refrigerant freezing on the coil surfaces and reducing airflow.
Solution: Check and replace your air filters every 1-3 months. During troubleshooting, make sure to check your filters. Also, make sure all your HVAC vents are open and free of obstructions that could block airflow.
Incorrect Thermostat Settings: Your thermostat settings might be too low. If your home’s indoor temperature is extremely low, it could strain your AC, causing it to freeze.
Solution: Adjust the thermostat to a higher setting. Furthermore, installing a smart thermostat can also help regulate and fine-tune your home’s temperature, reducing the urge to set your thermostat at extremely low temperatures and strain on your AC. With a smart thermostat, you can set your temperature preferences for a comfortable home that suits your schedule.
Low or Leaking Refrigerant: Unbalanced refrigerant levels can cause freezing. If your AC’s coolant is not balanced (meaning it is low or leaking), it could cause the evaporator’s temperature to drop too low, leading to moisture freezing and ice buildup.
Solution: Leave refrigerant issues to the professionals. Licensed HVAC technicians use proper equipment to safely monitor and manage your AC’s refrigerant levels. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, don’t hesitate to contact us.
You should always be on the lookout for signs of leaking or refrigerant:
- Unusual bubbling or hissing sounds when the AC is off
- Inadequate cool air from the AC
- Visible ice on the refrigerant lines
Step 3: Seek Professional Assistance
If the freezing problem remains unresolved or if there’s a refrigerant issue, it’s time to call in a licensed HVAC professional. Ignoring the issue could stress your AC and lead to preventable damage. So, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Step 4: Start Defrosting
Before it can function again properly or before a technician can work with the unit and diagnose the issue, it must be thawed.
For safe defrosting:
- Turn off your air conditioner at the thermostat.
- Change your fan setting from ‘auto’ to ‘on’ to start thawing.
- Monitor the melting ice to prevent water damage in the area.
- Be patient, as thawing can take a few hours to a full day, depending on the ice buildup.
Call Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air today at (614) 490-7530 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
