Some things work in a way that seems to oppose logic. When you get a fever and feel too warm, a cold bath can actually make things worse. Similarly, a hot summer day can actually cause air conditioners to freeze up. If you have a frozen air conditioner, you should turn it off to let it begin defrosting. In fact, this is a common problem that occurs on hot days in Cahokia, IL – here are two reasons why it happens why air conditioners freeze and how you can solve the problem.
Restricted Airflow
A lack of airflow through your air conditioner can cause it to freeze up. When the weather is hot, and you crank up your air conditioner to compensate, your AC needs plenty of airflow through it to prevent condensate from building up on the air conditioner coils. When airflow is restricted, and condensate builds up, it leads to frozen coils.
This restriction in airflow is usually a result of a dirty air filter. Often times, you can prevent air conditioners from freezing up simply by changing the air filter on a regular basis. At the minimum, you should change your filter every three months. You should check it monthly, and you may need to change it that often throughout the cooling season.
Refrigerant Leak
Another common cause of a frozen air conditioner is a refrigerant leak. This problem is a bit different from the dirty air filter in the sense that it’s a more severe problem. Many times, it is better to replace a leaking air conditioner if it’s nearing the end of its life, especially if it still uses R-22 refrigerant. If you have an HVAC professional come out to take a look at your refrigerant leak, be sure to talk to them about whether repair or replacement would be the better option for you.
Defrosting
If you have a frozen AC, you should turn it off and let it defrost. You may have a refrigerant leak if the problem persists. If this is the case, call a professional to take a look at your air conditioner as soon as possible.
Morrison Plumbing, Heating and Air has been in business for a long time, so we know how to deal with a frozen air conditioner. If you suspect you may have a refrigerant leak, give us a call or schedule an appointment online!
