What Causes My AC To Freeze Up?
If you live in Palm Beach, FL, you’re more than acquainted with the scorching heat and high humidity levels of the Sunshine State. Without a doubt, your air conditioner is the only system that helps you combat the intense heat so you can enjoy a relaxing and cooling indoor environment.
But what happens when your only source of indoor comfort freezes up? In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons for this sudden icy issue and ways you can try to fix it before calling a professional.
How Does an Air Conditioner Work?
Air conditioning systems use refrigerant, a working liquid that cycles through coils to produce the cool air that pumps into your home. Air conditioners don’t only cool your homes; these complex systems also reduce humidity and can help manage indoor air quality and airflow throughout your home.
Central air or a split air conditioning system usually has a thermostat, an outdoor unit, and an indoor unit, copper tubing that connects the outdoor and indoor use, an expansion valve for regulating refrigerant flow, and ductwork that circulates cool air throughout your space.
Common Causes of a Frozen AC
While frustrating, frozen AC units aren’t an uncommon problem. Here are a few common culprits that can cause your AC to freeze up:
- Restricted airflow: A dirty or clogged air filter can limit the flow of warm air over the evaporator coil, ultimately making the coil too cold and leading to freezing.
- Low refrigerant levels: Heat transfer is an important function of your AC. Without the right refrigerant levels, due to a leak or low levels, your AC is at risk of freezing up.
- Faulty thermostat: If your AC is continuously running, this can cause excessive cooling, leading to freezing within your unit. Make sure your thermostat is functioning correctly.
- Blocked drain line: A clogged condensation drain line can lead to water accumulation and a frozen evaporator coil.
- Malfunctioning blower fan: A malfunctioning blower fan won’t distribute air properly, likely leading to freezing within your unit.
What Can I Do To Fix It?
Now that you know what can cause your AC to freeze up, let’s look at some proactive tips for resolving it:
- Check your filter: It’s important to regularly check and replace your filter to ensure proper airflow. By keeping your filters clean, warm air can flow over the coilers, preventing freezing.
- Inspect for leaks: Finding and fixing a refrigerant leak is key to ensuring your system doesn’t freeze up. If you suspect a leak, adding refrigerant won’t fix the problem. Let a professional HVAC technician provide a reliable solution.
- Clear the drain line: The condensate drain line needs to be free from obstructions that can lead to water accumulation. A blocked drain line will only result in freezing.
- Test the blower fan: Repairs or replacements to your blower fan can help you keep cool. Make sure your blower fan is operating properly by testing it.
Call the Experts for AC Repair & Maintenance
Some DIY solutions can help prevent or resolve AC freezing issues, but it’s essential to leave complex repairs and maintenance to the experts at Hopkins Air Conditioning. Our HVAC specialists are licensed, insured, and background-checked to ensure your comfort year-round.
With same-day services, upfront pricing, and free estimates on replacements, you can trust our team to deliver exceptional HVAC services to keep your home cool and comfortable.
Schedule air conditioning repair and maintenance in Palm Beach, FL; call Hopkins Air Conditioning at (561) 656-4870.
