4 Common Reasons Why Your AC Unit Might Be Freezing Up

As the summer heat continues and you’re continuously running your air conditioning, has it ever occurred to you that there might be an issue if one morning your AC unit is actually frozen? This is an all-too-common problem for homeowners and can result in HVAC system breakdowns if not addressed. So why does this happen during the summer, of all seasons? And more importantly – what can you do about it to make sure your AC unit never faces a freezing malfunction again? Read on to find out all the answers to these questions and how you can protect yourself from potential issues caused by AC unit freezing.

Reasons for an AC unit freezing in Summer

In summer, hot weather can place a lot of stress on an air conditioner. If its evaporator coils become too cold, the unit can actually begin to freeze in certain circumstances. This is usually caused by low refrigerant levels, insufficient airflow over the coils, defective fans or components and dirty filters which restrict air flow. It’s important to make sure your AC is always well maintained and checked regularly to avoid an unwanted freeze!

Low Refrigerant Levels

If you find yourself asking why my air conditioner freezes up in the summer, low refrigerant levels may be to blame. An AC unit needs a certain amount of refrigerant – a chemical agent – to ensure proper cooling performance. When the refrigerant levels fall below the needed amount, it throws off the balance and causes your air conditioner to freeze. Frozen coils are one sign that your AC may have low levels of refrigerant and should be addressed as soon as possible. The only way to properly fix this issue is to contact professional technicians who can evaluate and restore your cooling system’s refrigerant. Don’t wait – if left unchecked, frozen coils can lead to further damage and reduced energy efficiency in your home.

Dirty Air Filters or Blocked Vents

During summer, air conditioning units can suffer from freezing due to a buildup of dirt or blockage in the air filters and vents. The most common cause of AC unit freezing is having a dirty air filter or blocked vent. Air filters can accumulate dust from the environment that are then blown into the system, while allergen-filled pet dander, lint and other particles can line vents if not cleaned and vacuumed regularly. Without proper airflow into the system, it quickly becomes overloaded, leading to the unit freezing. Taking preventative measures such as regularly changing air filters, cleaning vents regularly and making sure there isn’t any blockage around them should help alleviate any issues with frozen AC units in summertime.

Damaged or Faulty Wiring

It’s important to check all wiring from the thermostat, furnace, and the outside condenser unit in order to prevent an unexpected freeze-up. If any electrical wiring appears burnt or torn, it should be inspected and transformed by a professional due to safety concerns. Doing routine maintenance for your AC unit regularly throughout each year can help you catch these small problems before they snowball into costly repairs.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A condensate drain line is necessary for an air conditioning system, as it removes water that is created from the cooling system, preventing it from back flowing into the unit or escaping into your home. If this line gets blocked with dirt, mold, or any other debris, it can cause a backup of excess moisture and eventually lead damage to the unit or your home. To solve this issue, it’s a good idea to have your drain line checked by a reputable technician who can properly clear out any obstructions and repair any damage if needed. Doing this each year will help keep proper airflow within your air conditioning system and prevent anything like frozen coils from happening in future summers.

Are you tired of dealing with a frozen AC unit? Don’t let the problem get worse – call a trusted HVAC contractor today! Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring that your home stays cool and comfortable all summer long. Don’t wait – contact us now to schedule your appointment!