Why Is My Central AC Unit Freezing Up?

There’s nothing quite like the thought of ice on a scorching summer day. Whether it’s an ice-cold drink or a cool cloth on your forehead, ice can be your best friend. But when it comes to your air conditioner, ice is definitely not welcome. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is my AC unit freezing up?” You’re not the only homeowner with this question.

Let’s review some common reasons why your AC unit might be freezing up and what you can do about it.

Signs That Your AC Unit Is Freezing Up

Knowing the signs of a frozen air conditioner can help you address the issue before it leads to further damage. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Reduced Airflow: If your AC is blowing less air than usual, it could be a sign that the coils are starting to freeze.
• Warm Air: When your AC unit is frozen, it might blow warm air instead of cool air.
• Ice on the Coils or Refrigerant Lines: Visible ice on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines is a clear sign that your AC unit is freezing up.
• Water Leaks: Water pooling around your indoor unit can indicate a clogged condensate drain line or melting ice.

Common Causes of a Frozen Air Conditioner

A frozen air conditioner is a common issue, but it’s one that you can often prevent or fix with a bit of knowledge. Of course, the first step in addressing this problem is understanding what causes it.

Dirty Air Filters

One of the most common reasons for a frozen air conditioner is a dirty air filter. When air filters get clogged with dirt and debris, they restrict airflow, making it difficult for your AC unit to operate efficiently. This restricted airflow can cause the evaporator coil to get too cold and freeze up. Regularly checking and replacing your air filters can help prevent this issue.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is essential for your AC unit to cool the air. If your AC unit is low on refrigerant, this can possibly be why your AC unit is freezing up. Low refrigerant levels are often due to leaks in the refrigerant lines, which need to be addressed by an HVAC professional.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

Another culprit of a frozen air conditioning system is a clogged condensate drain line. When the drain line is clogged, excess moisture builds up around the evaporator coil, leading to ice formation. This not only affects the performance of your AC unit but can also cause water damage in your home.

Inadequate Airflow

Proper airflow is critical for your AC unit to work efficiently. If there’s insufficient airflow due to obstructed ductwork, a damaged blower fan, or too many closed vents, this can be why your AC unit is freezing up. Making sure that your ductwork is clean and your vents are open can help maintain proper airflow.

How to Avoid a Frozen AC Unit

No one wants to deal with their AC freezing up, especially when its proper operation is necessary on a sweltering day. Thankfully, there are multiple ways to prevent this issue before it starts.

Schedule Maintenance

Preventing a frozen AC unit starts with regular maintenance. Schedule annual tune-ups with an HVAC professional to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and confirm that all components are in working order.

Change Air Filters Regularly

Remember, if you’re wondering why your AC unit is freezing up, it could be due to a dirty filter. Consistently changing your air filters can help maintain proper air flow and prevent dirt and debris from clogging the system. A good rule of thumb is to check your air filters every month and replace them every three months — or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.

Keep Vents Open and Unobstructed

Make sure all vents in your home are open and free from obstructions. This allows for proper airflow and helps your air conditioning unit function efficiently.

Clean Coils

Cleaning your AC coils on a regular basis can help prevent dirt buildup and maintain efficient operation. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional for a thorough cleaning.

Check Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC to freeze. If you notice reduced cooling performance or ice on your refrigerant lines, call an HVAC professional to check for leaks and recharge your system.

When to Contact Service Plus for Help

While some maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. If you’re unsure why your AC unit is freezing up, it’s time to schedule a service call.

At Service Plus, our experienced technicians can diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repairs to get your AC running smoothly again. We offer comprehensive AC services to help you keep your home cool and comfortable. Whether you need a repair or tune-up in Indianapolis, we’re on standby to assist you.

Schedule Your AC Services in Indianapolis Today!

A frozen air conditioning system can feel like an unsolvable problem in the heat of summer. By understanding the underlying causes of your AC unit freezing up and taking necessary actions to address and prevent it, you can keep your home refreshingly cool.

If you’re experiencing problems with your AC unit, contact Service Plus for professional AC repair in Indianapolis or one of the surrounding areas. Our experts are ready to help you get your air conditioning system back up and running. Schedule your service today!