When your air conditioning freezes, it can be alarming. To rapidly unfreeze it and stop more freezing instances in the future, you can use several ways.
Understanding what causes an AC unit to freeze is critical to avoiding them in the future. This article will detail some of the most likely reasons and ways your air conditioning could freeze up and offer solutions on how you can prevent future problems.
Continue reading to explore remedies for a frozen air conditioner. If you need immediate help with your air conditioning unit, click the following link to schedule hassle free HVAC services in Loveland, CO.
Clean The Evaporator Coil
You might need to perform some simple maintenance to fix a frozen evaporator coil in your air conditioner. A refrigerant-filled evaporator coil receives heated air from your system through return ducts. The heat is then removed, and the air is blown back out to supply ducts for
For optimal operation of this process, the coil must remain free from dirt and gunk entering through return ducts into your home to absorb heat efficiently and cool the indoor environment effectively.
Start by switching off your AC unit to prevent further damage while making it safe for inspection and cleaning.
Next, use compressed air to blow away large chunks of debris before gently brushing away any dirt or gunk accumulated on the coils using soft brushes such as fin brushes. However, be careful not to force these too hard, as this could bend or fold the fins and restrict airflow.
Once the coils have been cleaned, use an evaporator coil cleaner solution available at most home improvement stores to break down gunk and loosen dirt. After applying this cleaner solution, wipe down with a damp cloth to finish cleaning them before opening any windows for better air circulation to help ice and moisture melt faster.
Clean The Thermostat
Ice-clogged air conditioners may need professional diagnosis and repair if they are neglected. However, regular maintenance and preventing common AC problems will help to lower the chance of such issues arising.
Poor airflow occurs when your air filter gets clogged with dust or debris, preventing warm air from entering the system and cooling it down, or blower motor failure or damage, which further messes with the system, are common causes of frozen evaporator coils.
Blocked or collapsed ducts also prevent this air movement through the system, leading to inadequate heat exchange and ice crystals forming on them.
Once the evaporator coil and refrigerant line have thawed, it’s essential to clean your thermostat to clear away any blockages that might limit airflow. Next, switch back on and set your system back to “fan only,” as this will enable the blower fan to continue blowing warm air over the coils to facilitate their thawing process.
Give yourself at least 24 hours for complete thawing, after which use paper towels to wipe them down or even leave them sitting out in direct sunlight to help dry them entirely before switching on again!
Change The Air Filter
Though many AC issues require professional attention, some can be quickly solved through DIY techniques. A dirty air filter, for instance, may restrict refrigerant flow and cause an AC unit to freeze; thus, these air filters must be regularly checked and changed out while also checking vents are open, dampers appropriately adjusted, and no obstructions blocked return airflow.
To change your air filter, locate and unscrew the cover of an air return duct. Remove your old filter, clean it under running water, and slide it back into its place after drying – new air filters can be found at any home improvement store.
Once the ice has melted, the coils must dry completely before restarting the AC system. To speed this up, try opening doors and windows to provide air circulation or use electric fans to increase airflow.
Numerous factors may cause frozen air conditioners; most can be avoided with proper maintenance and servicing by certified professionals. A home warranty policy may provide great coverage against unexpected repairs and replacements – for more information, contact a local home warranty provider, and they’ll help you find an insurance plan to meet your unique needs.
Call A Professional
Professional assistance should be sought if your AC unit has frozen repeatedly despite your best efforts at defrosting it. A technician will examine any other factors that could cause it to freeze and fix them so the unit doesn’t do it again. A common culprit behind frozen air conditioning units is an improper thermostat preventing airflow through the system..
Frozen ACs may also be caused by clogged air filters that restrict airflow through your system, restricting flow and freezing up again. Arranging regular maintenance is a smart idea to help avoid these kinds of difficulties in the first place.
Air conditioning systems provide us with comfort during the hottest days of summer. Still, if yours begins to freeze up unexpectedly, you must address the problem before it worsens.
Following the steps outlined here can help get your air conditioner up and running again, but if left unaddressed, it may result in its total freeze, requiring extensive repairs and coverage by your home warranty policy.
