What Causes an AC to Ice Up?

Is your AC freezing up in Columbus, OH? If your home feels warm no matter how long you run your air conditioner, your AC may be icing up regularly. You may have even noticed ice on the coils. This can happen for a number of reasons.

A Clogged Filter

Even though changing the air filter isn’t a difficult task, it's easy for people to forget to keep up with this minor maintenance practice. As a general rule, clean or replace the filter every 30 days for better cooling. Otherwise, your AC unit might lose efficiency, or it may not operate at all.

A clogged air filter will prevent proper airflow. Reduced airflow gives the refrigerant time to create condensation on the coils, which can lead to an AC freezing up in Columbus, OH. If this is the cause of the problem, you can easily correct it by installing a clean filter.

Refrigerant Leaks

Another common cause of ice developing on the coils is a refrigerant leak. The loss of refrigerant lets the temperature in the evaporator coils drop. This is another way that condensation forms on the coils and eventually freezes. Your HVAC technician will know how to repair the leak and restore the refrigerant to its proper level. 

A Malfunctioning Blower Fan 

A blower fan that doesn’t work properly will cause cool air to back up into the system. This can cause your air conditioner to freeze up. You might also notice little to no airflow coming from your vents as a result of this problem. 

You’ll need an HVAC technician to diagnose the specific cause of a malfunctioning blower fan, since an issue with the blower motor, fan belt, or fan assembly can all lead to this problem.

Let the Pros Handle Your AC Freezing Up in Columbus, OH

You may be managing your freezing air conditioner problem by turning it off long enough to allow any ice to melt, but this is not a long-term solution — and it can leave you and your family without cool air when you need it most.

Mr. Air provides comprehensive AC and heating maintenance, repairs, and installation services. If your AC keeps freezing up, we can diagnose and fix the problem for you promptly and effectively. For any type of HVAC maintenance or repairs, schedule service with our team today.