Common Causes of AC Unit Freezing Up and How to Fix Them

We have been in the throws of the sweltering New Orleans summer heat, and now more than ever, our air conditioning units have become absolutely indispensable. Nevertheless, homeowners like yourself may experience a pretty frustrating problem: Your AC unit freezing up. That said, the Optimum Air Solutions team wants you to thoroughly understand the causes of this issue, because not only does it affect your comfort, it can lead to some expensive repairs. 

Today, we’re diving into the most common causes of an AC unit freezing up, and solutions to remedy the problem fast.

Let’s get started!

Understanding Why AC Units Freeze Up

When we’re talking about an AC unit freezing up, what we’re referring to is the formation of ice on your system’s evaporator coils or any other components of your unit. The presence of ice can obstruct your system’s airflow,  which could lead to reduced cooling efficiency and further potential damage. 

Being able to identify the signs of an air conditioner freezing is the first step to take. Symptoms to diagnose include minimized airflow, visible ice accumulation on the coils, and a clear increase in your utility bills. When these symptoms go untreated, it could lead to your AC having a complete breakdown, resulting in expensive repairs. 

Common Causes of AC Unit Freezing Up

• Low Refrigerant Levels

There are quite a few things that can cause your AC to freeze, but one of the primary culprits of an AC unit freezing up is low refrigerant levels. If you didn’t already know, refrigerant is the substance that helps absorb the unwanted heat from the inside of your home or business and release it outside. 

When there is a refrigerant leak or your unit is left undercharged, it can lead to pressure drops, which is what causes the ice formation on the evaporator coils. If you’re looking for signs of low refrigerant levels, keep an eye out for ice buildup on the coils and a reduced cooling performance. It’s important to get this issue addressed promptly by a trusted HVAC expert.

• Dirty Air Filters

Believe it or not, another common cause of air conditioning freezing is dirty or clogged air filters. When your air filters are contaminated with a bunch of dust and debris, your system’s airflow can become restricted, which will cause your system to struggle to bring in air. 

This reduction in airflow will lead to the coils freezing, because of the lack of heat exchange. When homeowners notice bad airflow, an increase in energy consumption, and ice forming on their coils, they may have a problem on their hands. Being sure to regularly check and replace your air filters–usually every 1 to 3 months–will help mitigate that problem from occurring. 

• Blocked Vents or Ducts

If your vents or ducts are blocked, there is a chance that your airflow is being impeded and contributing to your AC unit freezing up. This barricade may be caused by your furniture, curtains, or any other obstructions in your home or business. If you happen to notice uneven cooling throughout your home or any loud noises coming from the system while it is struggling to operate properly, make sure that your ducts are clear. That will help to maintain proper airflow and lessen the chances of your AC freezing up.

• Faulty Thermostat

A thermostat on the fritz is another cause of an AC unit freezing up. Your thermostat can read your indoor temperature, which may cause your system to run constantly and continuously, which ultimately can lead to the formation of ice around your coils. 

If you suspect that your thermostat is faulty or that your AC is running longer than necessary, it may be time to get the help of a professional technician.

• Environmental Factors

Your external conditions can play a huge role in what causes an AC to freeze over. The high humidity levels of our city can lead to condensation buildup on your evaporator coils,  which can freeze if your system isn’t capable of removing moisture as efficiently as needed.  Furthermore, extreme temperatures can exacerbate freezing problems. If you are experiencing extreme weather, you should monitor your environment and adjust your HVAC usage accordingly.

How to Fix AC Units Freezing Up

If you’re dealing with an AC unit freezing up, there are a few steps you can take to remedy the issue. First things first, turn your system off and let it the. If you continue to run your AC unit in its frozen state, you risk causing further damage to the machine. 

Once your unit has had the chance to thaw, inspect your air filters and replace them if need be. This simple maintenance task can significantly elevate your airflow and system performance. The next step is to inspect your vents and ducts for any blockages or barricades and clear them if necessary.

If you suspect your system is suffering from low refrigerant levels, it is best to contact an experienced HVAC expert. That is the best way to guarantee that the issue is handled properly. The Optimum Air Solutions team of experts is more than equipped to handle any refrigerant hiccups, locate leaks, and recharge your system if needed.  Furthermore, they have the capability to run accurate diagnostics if you feel like your thermostat is on the fritz.

Preventative Measures

Preventing your AC unit freezing up will always start with regular maintenance. It’s important to be sure to schedule your routine HVAC check-ups with your trusted professional technicians. During these preventative maintenance appointments, our team will check your refrigerant levels, clean your system’s coils, and verify that your space is getting adequate airflow.

When you stay on top of regularly monitoring your air filters, and changing them when needed, you’re completing a crucial step–one that makes a significant impact on your system’s performance. 

Additionally, be very aware of the external environment and the elements that have the capacity to impact your AC unit. That can save you a lot of time, energy, and money in the long run.

Now that you understand the most common causes of an AC unit freezing up, you can take preventative measures to be sure that your system is always working in tip-top shape. If you are still experiencing persistent issues after trying our tips, give the Optimum Air Solutions team a call! Click here to get in contact with one of our specialists and schedule a consultation today. We’ll have you breathing easy in the Big Easy in no time.