A frozen AC is a bad thing because it means that something is wrong with the system. If your AC is frozen, you have probably noticed that it’s either blowing warm to cool air or no air at all. On a hot day, its reduced effectiveness will be more noticeable.
Restricted Air Flow
One of the most common reasons behind a frozen air conditioner is that its airflow is restricted somewhere. You need to maintain at least 3 feet of clearance around the condensing unit, and this includes grass and plants. If the unit is surrounded by obstacles, the airflow can be blocked, which strains the system and causes it to freeze.
A dirty air filter overdue for being changed is another potential cause of restricted airflow. Air filters are designed to trap dust, dirt, and debris, but if they become clogged, air can’t circulate properly through the unit. This reduced airflow leads to the coils freezing as the air can’t carry enough heat away. You need to change the air filter every one to three months to prevent your air conditioner from having restricted airflow and other problems, ensuring that your system functions efficiently.
Make sure to check your outdoor unit regularly for debris or obstructions that could block the airflow. Cleaning the unit and trimming nearby plants can help maintain a steady flow of air and prevent your AC from freezing up.
Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is a key part of your air conditioner. It circulates through the system and changes from liquid to gas and back to liquid. When there isn’t enough refrigerant, the AC can’t work properly. Moisture gets onto the coils and begins to freeze, creating the ice. Low refrigerant means that there is a leak somewhere, making this problem even more urgent to fix.
Low refrigerant not only causes your AC to freeze but also impacts its ability to cool your home effectively. If the refrigerant is low, it’s often due to a refrigerant leak, which can be hazardous if not repaired. A leak reduces the pressure in your system, and the evaporator coils start to get colder than normal, leading to ice formation. This ice restricts airflow and causes further damage to the system if left untreated. To avoid this issue, a professional technician will need to locate and repair the leak, then recharge the system with the proper amount of refrigerant.
Dirty Coils
Dirt on the coils acts as an insulator, which keeps cold air trapped inside. The cold buildup contributes to your air conditioner freezing. Moist air around the coils also provides an ingredient for ice forming on the AC. Dirty coils prevent heat from being absorbed properly, which can cause the system to freeze as it struggles to maintain its cooling function.
Your air conditioner’s coils become dirty faster when you don’t use an air filter or when you use a low-quality filter. They will also be excessively dirty after going a year without being cleaned. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the coils are essential for optimal performance. A professional technician can clean your coils, ensuring that the system runs efficiently and that your AC doesn’t freeze.
You can hire us for AC maintenance to have your coils cleaned among many other important annual tasks. We thoroughly clean your AC and inspect it for damage during maintenance. Regular servicing helps catch any early signs of issues, ensuring your air conditioner is running smoothly all year round.
Thermostat Issues
Your thermostat plays an important role in regulating the temperature and controlling the system’s cooling cycle. If it’s malfunctioning, it could cause your AC to run longer than necessary, leading to freezing. A thermostat that is set too low or has a faulty sensor can send incorrect signals to the unit, which could cause the evaporator coils to freeze. A quick inspection and recalibration of the thermostat by a professional can prevent this from happening.
In some cases, the thermostat may need to be replaced if it is beyond repair. It’s a good idea to check the thermostat’s settings and ensure it’s operating correctly to prevent any temperature control issues from leading to freezing.
Faulty Blower Fan
The blower fan in your AC system helps circulate the air over the evaporator coils to prevent ice buildup. If the blower fan isn’t functioning properly—whether due to a mechanical failure or an issue with the motor—it can cause the air to not circulate effectively, leading to freezing. This may cause the evaporator coils to freeze, as they cannot dissipate the cold air efficiently.
Regular inspection of your AC’s blower fan can help you avoid this problem. If you hear unusual sounds or notice reduced airflow, the blower fan may need to be serviced or replaced.
Clogged Drain Line
A clogged condensate drain line can cause excess moisture to build up inside the AC unit. This trapped moisture can freeze on the coils, blocking airflow and reducing the system’s efficiency. Over time, the drain line can become clogged with dirt, algae, or debris, leading to water backup inside the system.
To prevent this, it’s important to regularly inspect and clean your AC’s condensate drain line. Professional maintenance services can ensure that the drain is clear and functioning correctly, helping your system run efficiently and preventing ice buildup.
Why Choose Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC for Your AC Services
Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC is a factory-authorized dealer that you can trust for quality air conditioning services in Fort Myers and the surrounding areas. We offer repair, maintenance, and installation of all brands of heating and cooling systems. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch service for all your HVAC needs.
In addition to AC services, we can also clean, repair, maintain, and install ducts. Other available services include blown-in insulation and indoor air quality solutions. Our business, established in 1983, has earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, ensuring you get reliable and trustworthy service every time.
Whether you need a quick fix for a frozen AC or regular maintenance, we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information about our services and to schedule an appointment. Let Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC keep your home cool and comfortable all year round!
