A freezing AC in summer is a rather common occurrence. If you don’t see ice, you might still have a freezing problem if the air feels warm at the supply registers. Why does your AC freeze up and how can you fix the problem? When your AC freezes up, it can be due to a couple of issues, which our HVAC technician can address promptly.
The problems responsible for a frozen AC can be fixed with tune-ups and regular maintenance. With over 70 years performing HVAC maintenance in the Greater St. Louis area, Galmiche & Sons can service all popular makes and models of air conditioners. To schedule HVAC maintenance service or have your freezing AC checked out, call us at 314-993-1110 or fill out our online form.
Why an AC Freezes Up
The common causes for an AC freezing up are as follows:
Weak or Blocked Airflow
When warm air does not move across the evaporator coils, the coils’ temperature will plummet and cause them to freeze. Poor airflow is most often caused by a dirty air filter or evaporator coils.
The fix is simple. Turn the A/C off and allow the unit to thaw. Turning the fan to the "on" position will allow it to continue running and enable the unit to thaw faster.
Once thawing is complete, replace the air filter. Ensuring a regular filter cleaning or changing schedule can keep various AC problems away and support AC performance.
Mechanical Problems Causing Your AC to Freeze Up
An air conditioner has many moving parts. If any of these parts fail, then the resulting low pressure can cause low temperature (pressure and temperature are directly proportional). When the temperature becomes low enough, the moisture turns to ice and your AC freezes up.
Addressing mechanical issues with an AC is best left to HVAC technicians. Galmiche and Sons carries out all types of AC repair, including resolving AC freezes.
Refrigerant Leaks
A refrigerant leak is another reason an AC freezes up. Handling refrigerant requires certified expertise. Call in an HVAC technician for AC refrigerant leak repair, who will thaw the ice, find the leak, recharge the refrigerant, and restore your AC’s cold air cycle to normalcy.
Cool Summer Nights in St. Louis
If nighttime temperatures fall, then your AC’s pressure can drop and cause ice formation. When the temperature drops below 60°F outside and your AC is still running, the problem becomes more likely.
Shut down your AC and let the ice thaw. When the outside temperature falls, open the windows and allow your home to cool naturally. If your AC freezes up despite this, have a HVAC technician diagnose the problem.
Thermostat is Set Too Low
It could be that your thermostat is set a bit too low and the resulting drop in indoor temperature causes the refrigerant pressure to drop, leading to the formation of ice. Setting the thermostat above 67°F can help prevent AC freeze. When the evaporator coils ice up, they can affect your AC’s efficiency, which is another reason to keep your thermostat at a moderate level.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for AC Repair in St. Louis
When an AC freezes up, it can lead to reduced cooling performance and efficiency, strain the compressor, and as the ice melts, cause AC water leaks inside your home. AC maintenance from Galmiche & Sons can save you money on expensive AC repairs that become necessary due to not maintaining the cooling unit properly. To schedule AC maintenance service or get AC repair quickly, call us at 314-993-1110 or fill out our online form.
