It’s the middle of a hot, humid summer, and your air conditioner should be keeping you cool. But instead, it’s frozen solid—literally. If you’ve noticed ice on your AC unit or weak airflow inside your home, you’re likely dealing with a frozen air conditioner. This is a common issue, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Left untreated, it can cause serious damage to your system and lead to costly repairs.
At Premier, we help homeowners get to the root of cooling issues. Let’s break down the common causes of AC freeze-ups, what you can try on your own, and when it’s time to call in the pros for AC repair in Milledgeville, GA.
Common Causes of a Frozen AC
1. Restricted Airflow
Your air conditioner needs steady airflow to function properly. If the air is restricted, the evaporator coil can get too cold and begin to freeze. Common airflow issues include:
- Dirty or clogged air filters
- Closed or blocked vents
- Dirty evaporator coils
- Malfunctioning blower fan
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your cooling system. If your system is low on refrigerant—often due to a leak—it can cause pressure imbalances that result in freezing. You might also notice your home isn’t cooling as well as it used to.
3. Thermostat or Electrical Malfunctions
Faulty thermostats or wiring issues can cause your AC to run longer than it should. When the system doesn’t cycle off properly, it can overcool the evaporator coil, leading to ice buildup.
4. Outdoor Temperatures
Believe it or not, running your AC when outdoor temperatures are too low—especially overnight or during unseasonably cool days—can cause freezing. Your system wasn’t designed to operate below a certain threshold, and doing so can lead to trouble.
Can You Troubleshoot a Frozen AC?
Yes—but with caution. If you catch the issue early, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the problem:
- Turn off your AC and switch the fan to “on.” This will allow warm air to circulate and help melt the ice.
- Check and replace your air filter if it’s dirty or clogged.
- Inspect vents and registers to ensure nothing is blocking airflow.
- Avoid running the AC in cooler outdoor temperatures.
If the unit begins working normally again after thawing, keep an eye on it. If the problem returns, it’s a sign of a deeper issue.
When to Call a Repair Expert
While some causes of AC freeze-ups are simple fixes, others require professional diagnosis and repair. You should call a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Ice continues forming on your unit even after replacing filters and improving airflow
- You suspect a refrigerant leak
- Your system short-cycles or doesn’t cool effectively
- You hear unusual noises from the AC
- It’s been over a year since your last professional tune-up
At Premier, we’re equipped to handle everything from airflow issues to refrigerant repairs for homes across Milledgeville. We’ll inspect your entire system, identify the root cause, and restore your cooling comfort as quickly as possible.
Don’t let a frozen AC leave you sweating. If your system is icing up or showing signs of trouble, call Premier today.