When summer is in full swing and you feel like you’re going to melt in the heat and humidity, it’s hard to think of ice forming anywhere other than your freezer. But your air conditioner, specifically its evaporator coils, can freeze up and cause a host of issues.
Read our most recent blog to learn more about the causes of an air conditioner freezing up and how to fix this issue. For all of your air conditioning repair needs, contact the HVAC professionals at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric.
Why is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
Knowing the common causes of why an air conditioner can freeze up can help you determine whether it’s a DIY fix or if you should contact a certified heating and cooling professional.
Dirty Air Filter
HVAC air filters are installed between the return duct and air handler of your HVAC system and filter out dirt, dust, dander, allergens and other contaminants. If filters aren’t cleaned or replaced on a regular basis, they can become clogged which restricts airflow. Restricted airflow over the evaporator coil can cause it to freeze up.
Duct or Vent Issues
Aside from a restricted air filter, other issues can also cause poor airflow that leads to a frozen evaporator coil. They include air duct leaks, ducts clogged with dust and debris, and supply registers that are blocked by furniture or carpet.
Low Refrigerant Level
A refrigerant leak, even a small one, can cause the pressure in the refrigerant system to drop. When the refrigerant expands, it can cause the evaporator coil to become colder, eventually leading to a frozen system.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
Although your HVAC system’s air filter is tasked with catching contaminants such as dust and dirt, over time debris can build up on the evaporator coil. This can reduce airflow and cause your air conditioner to freeze up.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze. The thermostat is responsible for sensing the temperature of the air in your home and sending a signal to the air conditioner to turn on or off. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, it may not be able to accurately sense the temperature in your home, which can cause the air conditioner to run too long. When the air conditioner runs too long, it can cause the evaporator coil to become too cold and freeze.
What Happens When an Air Conditioner Freezes Up?
When an air conditioner freezes up, it can cause several problems that can damage the system and reduce its efficiency. Common issues associated with frozen air conditioner evaporator coils include:
- Damaged components. If not addressed in a timely fashion, a frozen evaporator coil can cause serious damage to expensive air conditioning components including the compressor which can become overstressed as your system constantly runs. This can lead to expensive repairs or even total system replacement.
- Reduced cooling output. A frozen evaporator coil will significantly reduce your air conditioner’s cooling performance, causing your home to feel warmer than it should.
- Increased energy costs. Since your system is constantly running in to reach the set temperature on your thermostat, it will also lead to higher energy bills and increased system wear and tear.
- System shutdown. Sometimes, a frozen air conditioner can cause your system to completely shut down to avoid overheating.
- Water damage. When the ice eventually melts, it can drip onto air conditioning components or your flooring, leading to expensive damage or mold and mildew growth.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing for Air Conditioner Repair Service
If not identified and repaired in a timely manner, a frozen air conditioner can cause significant damage to your system and even lead to it shutting down. If you have a frozen air conditioner or are experiencing any other issues with your system, Ravinia Plumbing can help.
We’ve been in business since 1928 (that’s 95 years!), and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing companies in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment for air conditioning repair. We also offer 24/7/365 emergency service in case issues occur that need immediate attention.
