Why Is My Air Conditioning Unit Freezing Up?

It’s a hot and muggy summer day when suddenly, you notice something odd. Your air conditioner is covered in ice.

It might seem strange for an AC to freeze when temperatures are in the 100s, but this issue is surprisingly common.

Here’s what causes your AC to freeze and how you can quickly get it back to keeping your home cool and comfortable.

Common Signs Your AC Is Freezing Up

If your AC starts freezing, you’ll notice signs like ice on the evaporator coil or outdoor unit pipes. Airflow may drop, and you could feel warm air instead of cool.

To inspect your AC, turn it off and check for ice buildup around the unit and pipes. Listen for hissing or bubbling sounds, and look for an overflowing drip pan, which can signal ice melting inside.

Top Causes of a Frozen Air Conditioning Unit

Your AC might freeze up for a few common reasons, such as:

• Low refrigerant levels: If your AC doesn’t have enough refrigerant, the pressure inside drops, causing your coils to get extremely cold and eventually freeze.
• Poor airflow: Dirty air filters, blocked vents, or fan issues can prevent proper airflow through your system, making the coils too cold and causing ice buildup.
• Thermostat issues or temperature settings: A malfunctioning thermostat or setting the temperature too low can make your AC run constantly, leading to freezing because the coils never get a break to thaw out.

How To Troubleshoot a Frozen AC

If your air conditioner freezes, try these simple steps to troubleshoot it safely:

• Turn off your thermostat from cool to off.
• Turn the fan from auto to on.
• Let your AC thaw completely.
• Check your air filters and replace them if needed.
• Turn your AC back on.

If you’ve completed these steps but your AC freezes again, it’s time to request an AC repair. Refrigerant issues or internal fan problems require experienced technicians to diagnose and repair safely.

When To Call an HVAC Professional

If your AC keeps freezing up or you notice signs of refrigerant leaks, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. Here are some warning signs of serious problems:

• Repeated freezing: If your AC freezes often, there could be an underlying issue, such as low refrigerant or a malfunctioning component.
• Refrigerant leaks: If you spot residue near the unit or hear a hissing sound, your system might be leaking refrigerant, which can cause long-term damage.
• Weak airflow: If you notice weak airflow even with the fan running, it could be due to clogged coils, dirty filters, or issues with the blower motor.
• Warm air: If your AC starts blowing warm air or the air temperature isn’t consistent, it might indicate a serious issue with the system’s components.

Ignoring a frozen AC unit can lead to more serious damage over time, potentially causing a more expensive breakdown.

A professional technician can quickly diagnose the problem, prevent further damage, and ensure your system runs safely and efficiently. Don’t wait for the issue to get worse. Getting it checked early can save you both time and money.

How To Prevent Your AC From Freezing

Keeping your AC running smoothly is easy with a few simple steps:

• Change your filters regularly to prevent airflow blockages and freezing.
• Schedule AC tune-ups to catch issues early.
• Avoid setting your thermostat too low.
• Consider using a programmable thermostat to maintain comfort without overworking your AC.
• Check for leaks around vents or ducts, as escaping air forces your AC to work harder.

Why Choose Us for AC Repairs in Northern Virginia?

At Len The Plumber Heating & Air, we don’t just fix your AC; we ensure it runs smoothly for the long haul. With over 25 years of home service experience, our technicians tackle repairs quickly and precisely.

We’re all about transparency, no hidden fees, no surprises. Plus, our fully stocked trucks mean we can handle any issue immediately so you can get back to comfort.

Ready to get your AC back in shape? Contact Len The Plumber Heating & Air today to schedule expert AC repairs in Northern Virginia and stay cool all season.