During a sweltering summer, air conditioning is essential. However, sometimes your AC can have issues that result in freezing. A frozen AC can indicate a severe underlying problem that may need immediate professional attention. Here, we’ll explore common causes of AC freezing, professional solutions, and additional considerations.
Common Frozen AC Causes
AC freezing isn’t normal and needs professional attention in many cases. Despite the frozen system, it can affect your AC’s ability to cool your home, reduce energy efficiency, and cause damage if left untreated. Here are some common causes of a frozen air conditioner.
Restricted Airflow
When airflow is restricted, it can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. One way airflow can become restricted is when the air filters get too dirty. Furniture or other objects can block your vents. You can also have ductwork obstructions or leaks affecting airflow.
Thermostat Issues
Setting your thermostat too low can force your air conditioning system to run continuously. This can lead to your system freezing. If your thermostat is set extremely low and your home still isn’t sufficiently cooling, it can indicate an even bigger issue. It’s also possible that your thermostat itself is faulty and malfunctioning.
Low Refrigerant Levels
If the refrigerant level of your AC drops too low, the pressure inside the evaporator coil can decrease. This pressure loss can make the coil get too cold and freeze. The refrigerant level dropping could be the result of a leak.
Evaporator Coil Issues
While refrigerant levels can cause evaporator coil problems, there are other ways that they can freeze. If the evaporator coil gets dusty or dirty, this accumulated dirt can insulate them. If they are insulated, it can interfere with the necessary heat exchange and cause freezing. If the blower fan or its motor has issues, this can reduce the air flowing over the evaporator coil and also cause freezing.
Drainage Problems
AC drainage issues can also cause freezing. If the condensate drain line becomes clogged, this can cause excess moisture to accumulate and freeze. Additionally, if the drain pan becomes damaged, excess water can build up and freeze, making the problem worse.
Professional Frozen AC Solutions
In most cases, you’ll need professional help to fix the underlying issue that is causing your AC to freeze. A professional technician has the knowledge, equipment, and experience to figure out the problem and remedy it. Here are some of the things a technician may do to fix your freezing AC.
Inspection and Diagnosis
The first thing a technician will do is extensively inspect your AC system and check for different possible causes. The technician will examine the thermostat, airflow, coil condition, refrigerant level, and more. Checking all the common causes will allow the technician to diagnose the underlying issue.
Air Filter Replacement
If dirty air filters are the reason for the freezing AC due to restricted airflow, the technician will replace them. However, some AC system types, like mini-splits, have filters that a technician will clean rather than replace. Either way, cleaning or replacing the air filters will ensure proper airflow and prevent freezing if this is the cause.
Evaporator Coil Cleaning
Since dirt and debris accumulation may cause the evaporator coil to freeze, a technician will clean them. The technician will test and examine other possible causes of the freezing. While a dirty evaporator coil can be the primary cause, other factors may also contribute to the freezing.
Refrigerant Level Adjustment
The technician will check the refrigerant level of the AC system and ensure it is at the optimal level. If the level is low, the technician will check for possible leaks and seal them. After the leak is sealed, more refrigerant will be added to bring it up to the proper level.
Calibrate Thermostat
A technician will examine the thermostat and check its settings. They will calibrate to ensure that the thermostat is functioning properly and the temperature settings are accurate. If the thermostat is broken and beyond repair, they can replace it with a new one.
Repair Drainage
The drain line will get cleared of clogs so that it can drain properly. If the drain pan is damaged, it can get replaced so water doesn’t collect and freeze. The technician will test to ensure drainage is working properly after repairs.
Repair Ductwork
The ductwork will be examined thoroughly by the technician. The technician will look for any leaks and ensure they are sealed. They will check the ductwork for dust accumulation or other obstructions that can block airflow. Repairing ductwork leaks and removing airflow obstructions should fix the freezing problem if this is the cause.
Blower Repair
The technician will repair the malfunctioning blower fan or the motor. This can be due to moving parts that require lubrication, replacement of broken components, or electrical issues. Once the blower fan is working properly, it should restore optimal airflow to the AC system and help prevent freezing.
Preventative Maintenance Benefits
When you get regular professional maintenance on your AC, you can help prevent freezing from occurring. During maintenance and tune-ups, a technician can find and fix minor problems that can lead to freezing if left unchecked. Additionally, there are many other benefits you get with regular professional maintenance.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Your AC system will work more efficiently if you keep it well-maintained. It will consume less electricity to keep your home cool when compared to an AC system that isn’t maintained regularly. Ensuring your AC is energy efficient by maintaining it can save you money on your energy bills.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Allergens, dust, and other particulates can accumulate on your air filters and inside your ductwork. As it accumulates, more will find its way into your home, lowering your indoor air quality. Regular maintenance ensures these are kept clean, promoting a healthy environment.
Repair Cost Reduction
Maintenance helps prevent issues that require repairs. Additionally, technicians can find minor problems during maintenance before they become more severe. Because of this early detection, if an issue arises, it will likely cost less to fix.
Increased Equipment Lifespan
The added efficiency of your AC system due to maintenance helps prolong the life of your air conditioner. The stress on components is minimized, especially when technicians lubricate moving parts. This can help save money by prolonging the time before your AC needs to be replaced.
Lower Environmental Impact
Your home’s carbon footprint lowers when you consume less energy from the grid. Since maintenance increases energy efficiency, this directly increases the environmental friendliness of your home. Homeowners can be proud of their reduced environmental impact when keeping their AC well-maintained.
Warranty Compliance
The warranty of your system has specific terms and conditions. One condition commonly included with warranties is that the system requires regular maintenance. If you have an issue that requires you to make a warranty claim, claim denial is possible due to maintenance negligence.
Do you live in Nashua, NH or the surrounding area and need help with a freezing AC? Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. is here to fix your problem. We offer both residential and commercial HVAC services including repairs, maintenance, upgrades, and new installations. Our 24/7 emergency service is available when you need us most. We can also help with oil-to-gas conversions, water heaters, and more. For more information about any of our services, contact Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. today!
