Is your air conditioner freezing in Morristown, NJ, leaving you hot and frustrated? An AC unit that keeps freezing up can be a major headache for homeowners, but don’t worry – understanding the common causes and solutions can help you get your cooling system back on track. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind freezing air conditioners and provide step-by-step guidance on how to address the issue with the help of a professional HVAC technician.
Contact E.J. Stashluk & Sons Inc. at 908.277.6200 immediately to schedule expert air conditioner repairs and ongoing maintenance services that keep your family cool and safe all season.
Common Reasons Your AC is Freezing Up
Several factors can contribute to an air conditioner freezing up, including restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, and dirty evaporator coils. When these issues occur, the cooling system’s delicate balance is disrupted, causing the evaporator coils to become too cold and freeze. As ice builds up on the coils, the air conditioner struggles to function properly, reducing cooling capacity and potentially damaging the compressor.
One of the most common reasons for a freezing air conditioner is restricted airflow. When the air filter becomes clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris, it limits the amount of warm air that can pass over the evaporator coils. This lack of warm air causes the coils to become too cold, forming ice. To prevent this issue, replacing your air filter regularly is crucial, typically every 1-3 months, depending on usage and indoor air quality.
Low refrigerant levels can also cause your air conditioner to freeze up. Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your cooling system, absorbing heat from your home’s air and releasing it outside. When there’s a refrigerant leak, the system can’t function properly, causing pressure drop and the evaporator coils to become too cold. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s essential to contact a licensed HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
Dirty evaporator coils can also contribute to a freezing air conditioner. Over time, the coils can accumulate dirt, dust, and grime, which insulates them and prevents proper heat transfer. This debris buildup causes the coils to become too cold, forming ice. To keep your evaporator coils clean and functioning optimally, schedule regular maintenance with a professional HVAC technician who can thoroughly clean the coils and inspect your entire cooling system.
Steps to Follow When Your Air Conditioner is Freezing Up:
Turn off your air conditioner and let it thaw. If you notice ice on your evaporator coils or your AC unit blowing warm air, immediately turn off the system and let it defrost. This process may take several hours, so be patient and avoid using the air conditioner.
Check and replace your air filter. Once your air conditioner has thawed, inspect the air filter for dirt and debris. If the filter is clogged, replace it with a new, clean filter to ensure proper airflow and prevent future issues.
Schedule professional maintenance with an AC technician. To diagnose and resolve the underlying cause of your freezing air conditioner, contact a licensed HVAC technician in Morristown, NJ. They can inspect your cooling system, identify refrigerant leaks, clean the evaporator coils, and repair your AC’s performance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why Does My Air Conditioner Keep Freezing Even After Replacing The Air Filter?
Suppose your air conditioner continues to freeze up after replacing the air filter. A more severe issue, such as a refrigerant leak or dirty evaporator coils, may be at play. Contacting a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve the problem is best.
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Can I Thaw My Frozen Air Conditioner By Running It In Fan Mode?
While running your air conditioner in fan mode can help thaw a frozen system, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause of the issue. Simply thawing the unit without fixing the problem will likely result in repeated freezing and potential damage to your AC.
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How Often Should I Schedule Ac Maintenance With An HVAC Technician To Prevent Freezing?
To keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently, it’s recommended to schedule professional maintenance with an AC technician at least once a year, preferably before the start of the cooling season.
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Can Low Refrigerant Levels Cause My Air Conditioner To Freeze Up?
Yes, low refrigerant levels due to a leak can cause your air conditioner to freeze. When there’s not enough refrigerant in the system, it can lead to a drop in pressure, causing the evaporator coils to become too cold and ice over.
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What Are Some Signs My Air Conditioner Needs Repair Or Maintenance To Prevent Freezing?
Some signs that your air conditioner may need repair or maintenance include reduced cooling capacity, warm air blowing from the vents, unusual noises or odors coming from the unit, and higher-than-normal energy bills. If you notice these symptoms, contact an AC repair professional for assistance.
Work with an HVAC Technician
A freezing air conditioner can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem for Morristown homeowners. By understanding the common causes, such as restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, and dirty evaporator coils, you can take proactive steps to prevent and address the issue. Regular air filter replacement and professional maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician are vital to keeping your cooling system running smoothly and efficiently.
Don’t let a frozen air conditioner leave you in the heat this summer. If you’re experiencing issues with your AC unit, contact a reputable AC repair company in Morristown, NJ, for prompt and reliable service. With the help of skilled professionals, you can get your air conditioner back on track and enjoy a relaxed, comfortable home all season long.
Call Stashluk Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Generators, your local New Jersey AC repair team immediately at 908.277.6200. We’ll dispatch our licensed HVAC experts to diagnose issues when you contact us.
