A Frozen AC Coil is a common problem with AC units regardless of the time of year. Issues with your AC unit can add to energy use and bills as well as disrupting the consistent temperature in your home.
Fall weather is on its way and homeowners in Tallahassee can expect a drop in temperature in the coming months. These cooler months are expected and many homeowners use the cold months as a time to avoid thinking about their AC issues. An issue such as a frozen ac coil this fall will still be an issue next spring if it isn’t handled now.
Take Steps to Avoid a Frozen AC Coil Now
- Keep the air filter clean. A dirty air filter will restrict air flow through the system. As air slows, it cools and the temperature in the AC unit cools, allowing the AC coil to freeze.
- Check for leaks. A refrigerant leak can cause pressure to drop which allows the temperature to drop in the system. As the coil temperature drops it can and will freeze.
- Check your outdoor unit for broken parts and debris. Damaged fan parts and broken motors can draw too little air into the air conditioner. This lack of air flow can lead to frozen coils. Make sure your AC unit is kept clear of fall leaves and winter snow as well.
- Pay attention to how long the AC unit runs. An AC system that runs too long is likely having a communication issue with your thermostat. A damaged or malfunctioning thermostat will communicate the wrong temperature to the AC unit, causing it to run too long and become overworked. This will lead to frozen AC coils.
- Hire a professional HVAC company. Only a certified HVAC professional will be able to make sure your refrigerant levels are optimal. A professional will also be able to make necessary repairs for mechanical and electrical issues. If necessary repairs are not completed, moisture cooled by the AC unit will freeze on the coils before it escapes.
Your AC unit is meant to last 10 to 15 years. By taking care of it from the moment it’s installed, you can insure it lasts season after season. Any issue with your air conditioner system is an issue that can be handled with routine maintenance and professional care.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Coil is Frozen
If the air conditioner runs, but the air it circulates is not cool, you likely have a frozen air conditioner coil or other similar problem. This may be the first thing you notice when you realize there is a problem with your air conditioner. You will likely notice a temperature problem before you get your monthly bill and before you go out and look at your unit.
When you look at your unit, you may be able to visibly see a problem. Visible ice on the indoor or outdoor coils is an obvious problem.
You can also check the air flowing into the AC unit while it runs. Air that moves slowly (or not at all) into the AC supply registers may be a sign the AC coils are frozen.
Finally, other than warmer temperatures and obvious visible signs of ice on the air conditioner, you may notice a buildup of moisture when the AC coils are frozen. Extra moisture or condensation can be a big problem for the rest of the house. It can cause respiratory issues for your family and water damage to the structure and furniture. The worst thing you can do is try and mask these problems by running a dehumidifier and continuously making repairs to damaged areas of the home.
What to Do if You Suspect Frozen AC Coils
So you’ve had problems with your AC unit keeping a consistent temperature, and possibly an unusually high utility bill. If you suspect a frozen AC coil there are a few things to do right away.
First, make sure the unit is shut off. Shutting the system off will not fix the problem, but it will prevent further damage. Shutting off the unit will keep the ac compressor from failing.
Once the system is shut off, it’s time to call a professional. Only a licensed and certified HVAC professional is able to formally diagnose and repair your AC unit properly. A licensed air conditioning technician will be able to determine the issue swiftly and get you back on line so there are no problems in the coming months.
Avoid problems and extra cost with preventative maintenance
Customers in and around Tallahassee can depend on Cooper’s Plumbing & Air for all their HVAC care and services. Because frozen AC coils are usually the result of some ongoing issues that may have gone unnoticed and not repaired, scheduling routine HVAC services can prevent extensive and costly repairs.
Annual preventative ac service and maintenance for your heating and cooling system is recommended to maintain its health and longevity, we recommend having your system serviced in the spring so it’s ready for the hot Tallahassee summers.
During these last few weeks before warm weather turns to cool, pay close attention to your AC system and note any changes or issues. Inconsistent temperatures and a constantly running ac unit are just a few things you may notice. Take this time to call your HVAC company, but take necessary steps to troubleshoot until the scheduled appointment.
Find and clean whatever water damage has occurred due to the AC malfunction. Take photos if necessary for your own files and for any homeowners insurance claims you might need to file. Turn your system off and try to melt ice around the coils. Do not chip this ice off, as this can cause extra damage that can be very expensive to repair. You can use a blow dryer to melt the ice from the AC coils or you can shut down the AC and switch the fan to “ON” to try and melt the ice naturally. For those homeowners who have a heat pump system, the defrost mode can help until your HVAC service appointment.
If you have a heating and cooling problem this fall and you suspect frozen coils, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment now. Call 866-464-7132 and get on our schedule today.