If you’ve ever glanced at your air conditioner and noticed a layer of ice forming on the coils or refrigerant lines, you might be tempted to think it’s a sign the system is working well—after all, cold is good, right? Unfortunately, it’s quite the opposite. You need AC repair in Winter Park, FL! Ice on an air conditioner is not just bad—it’s a clear warning sign that something is wrong, and the longer it goes unaddressed, the more serious (and expensive) the problem can become.
Here’s what every homeowner needs to know about frozen air conditioners—and why you should contact our HVAC professionals right away if you spot ice buildup on your system.
Why Ice Forms on an AC System
Air conditioners are designed to move heat out of your home, not to freeze up in the process. Ice typically forms on the evaporator coil when the coil gets too cold, which causes moisture in the surrounding air to condense and freeze. This can happen for a variety of reasons:
- Restricted airflow: Dirty air filters, blocked vents, or a malfunctioning blower fan can prevent warm air from circulating over the evaporator coil, causing it to get too cold and freeze.
- Low refrigerant levels: When your system is low on refrigerant—usually due to a leak—the pressure drops, which can cause the coil to become excessively cold and develop ice.
- Thermostat or control issues: If your system runs too long without cycling off properly, it may create conditions where ice forms.
- Dirty coils: A buildup of dust and grime on the evaporator coils can prevent heat transfer, leading to ice formation.
Why Ice Is a Serious Problem
When your AC system ices over, it can no longer cool your home effectively. Even worse, the ice acts as an insulator, making it harder for the coil to absorb heat and eventually leading to a complete system shutdown. If the issue is ignored, it can lead to:
- Compressor damage, one of the most expensive AC repairs
- Higher energy bills from reduced efficiency
- Water damage from ice melting in places it shouldn’t
- Total system failure during peak summer heat
What You Should Do If You See Ice
The first thing to do is turn off your air conditioner to prevent further damage. Next, check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty—this is an easy fix that might resolve a minor airflow issue. However, if the filter is clean and ice is still forming, it’s time to call in the pros.
Don’t Wait—Call Us Today
Ice on your air conditioner is a symptom of an underlying problem that needs professional attention. Our experienced HVAC technicians can quickly diagnose the issue, whether it’s a refrigerant leak, airflow restriction, or mechanical failure, and provide the prompt, effective repair your system needs.
Don’t wait for your air conditioner to stop working in the middle of a heat wave. If you notice ice forming on your AC coils, reach out right away for expert service. We’ll get your system back in top shape and your home cool and comfortable again in no time.
Contact Gary Munson Heating & Air Conditioning for AC installation in Winter Park, FL. You’ll be more comfortable with the best!