What Causes A Coil To Freeze In Your Air Conditioner?
One of the most common problems a cooling system can encounter is a frozen coil. It’s odd to think of a machine freezing in the heat of the summer, which is why we want to explain how it happens, and how to fix the problem. It’s something we see more frequently with older systems that use outdated refrigerants, but in our area of Pennsylvania, plenty of homes in our area have these cooling units installed.
John Cipollone Inc. has been a trusted, family owned and operated HVAC company since 1953. We have been repairing and replacing air conditioners and heat pumps for years, and are not surprised when we see a frozen coil. Luckily, this is something we have fixed in the past and have plenty of experience with!
In this article, we’ll go over why a coil may freeze in your cooling system, and what the next steps that you should take to get it fixed. If you see a frozen coil in your cooling system, or the unit simply isn’t working properly, give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or click here to contact us online!
Why Does A Coil Freeze In Your Cooling System?
It’s not always exactly clear why a cooling coil freezes up, but there are a few different reasons that could be the cause of the problem. In some cases you may be able to fix the problem yourself, but it’s more likely that you’ll have to call a professional to help you sort of the problem and solution.
Restricted Airflow
A cooling system uses refrigerant to cool air, and send it into your home. If there isn’t enough airflow over these coils, they could freeze up and prevent the system from working properly.
In this case, check your air filter and make sure it’s not clogged up. We recommend changing the air filter once every 1-3 months to make sure the air is flowing properly in your system, and the air is as clean as it can be!
Restricted airflow from a clogged filter, closed vent, or a blocked vent could back up the air, and cause problems with your cooling system, that leads to a frozen coil.
Low Refrigerant
If there is a leak and the refrigerant is too low, the pressure in your system will drop, and cause the temperature in the system to drop below the freezing point of water, and freeze up your coil. In this case, you are going to need a professional to fix the leak, and also refill the refrigerant.
If the system is very old, it may use old and outdated refrigerant, like R-22. If that’s the case, this could become a very costly fix, and homeowners should consider a replacement. Instead of spending hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair an old unit, consider investing that money in a new, energy efficient cooling system.
It’s more likely than not the system should be replaced soon anyway, so instead of pouring money into an old system get a new unit that will last you 10+ years, help lower energy bills, and improve comfort.
Dirty Coils
If you have dirty coils, the dirt could act as an insulator, preventing the warm air that passes over them from absorbing the cool, and heating the coils. Fortunately, this is usually an easy fix, to thaw and then clean the coils.
We recommend having your cooling system serviced at least once a year. During a routine service, a technician will clean your coils, and make sure that the system is working properly and running efficiently!
Mechanical Issues/Failures
There’s always a chance that the system has a mechanical problem. It could be an issue with the blower motor not pushing the air over the coils the way that it should. There could be an issue with the thermostat not working properly as well. In this situation, you should call a professional to help you find the problem, and help you out with a solution!
What Should You Do If You Have A Frozen Coil?
If you discover that you have a frozen coil in your AC or heat pump system, here are the next steps you should take:
- Turn off the system
- Check the filter, vents, and ducts to make sure everything is clear
- Call a professional if the vents/ducts weren’t the problem
In lots of cases, it’s easy for the technician to assess the problem and let you know the best course of action to get the system working again and your home cooled off.
If you have an old system with a leak, that uses outdated refrigerant, we recommend you think about upgrading to a new energy efficient heat pump. The best way to avoid frozen coils, or any cooling issues, is by scheduling routine maintenance. Take a look at our maintenance plans that help you save money, and take care of your HVAC units.
If you live in the Philadelphia suburbs around Havertown, Delco, or the Main Line, and you are having cooling problems, give John Cipollone Inc. a call at (610) 446-7877. Our team will come help you fix your cooling system, and make sure your home is comfortable all summer long!
