What Happens When Air Conditioner Is Freezing Up?
Your air conditioner freezing up on a hot day seems crazy. Why is my AC freezing up? Simply put, there is little or no air flow, over-use, broken parts, no maintenance, faulty blower motor, or refrigerant problems.
What ever the cause, the outcome is that the air conditioner’s evaporator coil cannot operate to properly remove heat, and ‘overcools’ itself. The super-cooling is condensation (water formation), and finally ice forms from that condensation as it cools below the freezing point. In short, the A/C turned into an icebox.
What Does It Cost To Repair?
Because there are many possible causes it’s hard to say. Worst case is the AC freezing up can lead to an expensive compressor failure. If you act quickly and call a PDM Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Since 1885 technician, you stand a better chance of having a less expensive repair. We will offer repair options and pricing before work begins.
Do This Now.
- Turn the thermostat AC/COOL system OFF and turn the FAN ON to help defrost the unit. Do not just turn the thermostat higher. This helps to unfreeze the coil and prevent damage to the expensive compressor. Could take up to 24 hours to defrost.
- If your outdoor AC unit is freezing up you can try pouring warm water on the frost.
- Check furnace air filter. Does it look like a gray furry cat? You may find the problem is simply due to a dirty filter which can block over 60 percent of the air flow.
- Next make sure your duct air registers and return line are open and not blocked by drapes or furniture.
- If you need professional help call PDM Cooling before this sticky situation becomes worse.
- If you haven’t had air conditioning maintenance in years it’s time to act.
How To Keep Your Air Conditioner From Freezing Up.
- Check for Refrigerant Leaks.
- Check and Change Your Furnace Air Filter.
- Make Sure Your Blower Fan Is Working Properly.
- Check Your Condensate Drain Line. If clogged clear blockage.
- Check Your Vents.
Contact A Trusted Neighbor.
Your PDM technician will diagnose the situation and offer options to avoid the issue from repeating in the future. If a refrigerant leak exists, the leak has to be repaired or the unit will likely freeze again. PDM has served Greater Joliet, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Lockport, Homer Glen, New Lenox, and Orland Park, IL since 1885. Call 815-726-6264 for quick help.
