Ice on your air conditioner in the sweltering Des Moines summer is a common AC problem many face. Fortunately in most cases, it’s easily fixable with some simple troubleshooting. This guide will help homeowners understand why there is ice on your air conditioner and when to contact an HVAC company like Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling.
Common Causes of Ice Buildup on an AC
Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is a vital element of every air conditioner. In general, refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and then releases the heat through the outside unit. Low refrigerant levels are often the cause of ice formation an an air conditioner. Without the proper amount of refrigerant the pressure drops within the unit forcing the evaporator coil to become too cold, leading to ice formation. A refrigerant leak is a serious issue that should be addressed by an HVAC technician. The refrigerant used is dangerous to touch and may cause frostbite. Always call a HVAC company if there are refrigerant leaks. Some of the signs of a leak include:
- Warm air from vents
- Ice buildup
- Hissing or bubbling noises
- Poor airflow
- High indoor humidity
Restricted Airflow
Dirty or clogged air filters restrict important airflow to your AC’s evaporator coils. When hot air can’t pass over the evaporator coils, the AC gets too cold and starts to freeze. Blocked vents or registers throughout the house can also cause poor airflow through your AC and lead to ice formation. We recommend periodically checking your AC system for proper air flow, and replacing air filters and ensuring vents are open and unobstructed.
Thermostat Issues
Setting your thermostat too low, especially on extremely hot or humid days can overwork your AC. When this happens, the evaporator coils stay too cold for an extended time, eventually freezing them. Malfunctioning thermostats are also responsible for ice on an air conditioner. Short-cycling is a common problem when the AC unit turns on and off frequently. Constant on and off cycles prevent the AC from cooling properly and allows the moisture in the air to condense and freeze on the coils. To avoid these problems, set your thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature. Additionally, double-check thermostat settings and batteries often, and if the issue persists contact a professional to help fix the problem.
Other Possible Causes
In some cases, ice buildup on an AC can be caused by other, less common issues, such as a faulty fan motor or a clogged drain line. Both problems can lead to ice forming on your AC and to other significant problems. Fixing these complex issues takes professional equipment and training. Contact a local HVAC expert for diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting and When to Call a Pro
What to Do When You See Ice on Your AC
- Immediately turn off the AC to allow it to defrost.
- Leave the HVAC fan running for at least 2 hours
- Check and change the air filter.
- Make sure vents are open.
- If the problem returns: Call an HVAC technician.
If you find ice on your AC your first step is to immediately turn off your AC system and allow the unit to defrost. While you’re waiting, check the air filter and change it if it is dirty or clogged. Double check your thermostat settings too. During your troubleshooting, make sure all of the supply vents in your home are open, allowing unrestricted air flow. If ice forms after these steps, it’s best to call an HVAC technician who can diagnose any issue from refrigerant leaks to malfunctioning fans, and help your AC get back to cooling your home.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
Air conditioner problems like dirty air filters or closed vents are easy fixes. However, other issues such as refrigerant leaks and broken hardware require professional help. If you are unsure of when to contact an HVAC company, follow these guidelines:
- If you suspect a refrigerant leak.
- If the ice returns after DIY troubleshooting.
- If you’re unsure of the cause or how to fix it.
Trust Aspen Aire to Fix a Frozen Air Conditioner in Des Moines
Whether it’s a dirty air filter, faulty thermostat or a refrigerant leak, your AC may see some ice buildup. But don’t panic, Aspen Aire is here to help! For almost 20 years, we’ve been a trusted source for HVAC repair in Des Moines. Our team of certified and experienced HVAC technicians can diagnose your icy AC and get your system back up and running in no time. Contact us at 515-257-8370 or through our contact form for help with your air conditioner.
