Why Does an Air Conditioner Freeze Up? Let's Consider the Possibilities

An air conditioner that is freezing over can be very alarming to homeowners. Understanding why an air conditioner does freeze up will ease your stress and can provide a course of action.

Why Does an Air Conditioner Freeze?

Low refrigerant – Refrigerant that is too low can result in the cold coil becoming overly cold and freezing. Call a trusted HVAC professional to address. Insufficient airflow – If the coil is not kept warm enough by circulating air it can become too cold and begin to freeze. Several things can restrict airflow:

• Dirty filters can prevent airflow. Take care to regularly replace your filters to produce the best airflow for your home.
• Blocked registers decrease airflow and can cause problems for your HVAC system. Keep registers free of debris and ensure that they are open for optimum airflow.

Fan speed – Check to make sure the fan is turning when the air conditioning is running. If the fan is not moving or not operating at the appropriate speed, the air conditioner may freeze. A HVAC expert can check your fan speed and make adjustments as necessary. Thermostat – Running an air conditioner all night, on cool nights, can cause freezing. If you find your air conditioner constantly runs despite the indoor air temperature, you may need a new thermostat. It is best to have a freezing air conditioner checked by a HVAC professional. Continuing to run an air conditioner that is freezing over can cause severe damage to the system and result in costly repairs. Calling an HVAC professional as soon as possible will save you time and money. For additional information about why an air conditioner freezes or for questions about indoor air comfort, please contact one of our local HVAC experts. AirConditioningSouthEast.com has professional contractors in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina.