Understanding the Causes of an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up

 

The summer season can be brutally hot, and the only respite for many of us is running our air conditioners at full tilt. However, have you ever noticed that sometimes your AC is not able to maintain its temperature? It may be due to air conditioner freeze-up. A frozen AC can be a cause of both expensive repair bills and discomfort during the scorching heat. To prevent this problem and better understand how it occurs, we are going to take a deep dive and examine the reasons behind the air conditioner freeze-up.

 

Dirty Air Filter

A dirty filter is one of the most frequent causes of air conditioner freeze-up. Air filters are responsible for trapping all the dust and pollutants present in the air. Over time, this filter gets clogged, which obstructs the airflow, making your AC less efficient. The evaporator coils can then freeze due to low airflow. You can easily prevent a dirty filter by following the manufacturer's guidelines and replacing it regularly.

Low Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a vital component in the air conditioner, as it is responsible for the cooling effect. It flows through the coils and the compressor, absorbing heat from the air and then release it outside. If there is a leak or a drop in the refrigerant level, the coils won't have enough heat to absorb, and thus may freeze up. To avoid this issue, we recommend getting your Air Conditioner checked by a licensed professional to check if there is a refrigerant problem.

Blocked Condenser

The condenser coil is located outside of the house, and it's responsible for dispersing the heat that your AC has absorbed from the indoor area. If the coil gets covered by debris and dust, it won't be able to expel heat, causing issues for your AC system. It could also lead to additional problems, such as a damaged compressor. You can prevent this by regularly cleaning the outdoor unit.

Low Ambient Temperature

While it might seem strange, a low ambient temperature can also cause an air conditioner freeze-up. An air conditioner is designed to maintain an optimal temperature range on a hot day. If the temperature outside is too low, the AC's refrigerant may freeze inside the coils, causing the system to shut down. To avoid such an issue, we recommend turning off the AC unit when the outdoor temperature falls below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Faulty Fan

The AC's fan is responsible for blowing indoor air over the cold evaporator coil, which then sends the cool air back to your home. If the fan is not working or is running slowly, the system will not be able to push enough air over the coil, leading to ice buildup. Make sure you check your fan and give it the necessary maintenance so that it can work correctly.

 

Conclusion

An air conditioner freeze-up is a problem that no one wants to deal with when the temperatures are soaring. By knowing how to recognize the key causes of a frozen AC, you can take steps to prevent it and make sure your air conditioner is operating at peak performance. It's essential to remember that regular maintenance and routine checks can go a long way in ensuring your cooling system remains in good working order. If you encounter an issue with your AC, don't hesitate to call a professional to diagnose and repair the issue. By following the above tips, you can avoid costly AC failures and keep your cool all summer long. If you're looking for AC supplies in Florida, contact Discount Air Supply today for more information.