If you’ve been experiencing regular air conditioner breakdowns due to your system freezing up, then it’s time to investigate the root cause of the issue. It can be frustrating to have your HVAC system constantly malfunctioning, not to mention the impact such issues can have on your energy bills. Working with an experienced and reliable HVAC company such as HB Home Service Team (PA) will ensure your air conditioning system is properly inspected and repaired. Here are some of the common reasons your HVAC system might freeze up.
1. Dirty Air Filters
Dirty air filters are among the most common causes of freezing air conditioning systems. Over time, your air filters can accumulate dirt, grime, and debris, causing them to become clogged and less efficient in filtering the air. When your air filters become clogged, airflow restricts, making it harder for your air conditioner to exchange air, which can make the cooling coils freeze. It’s important to clean or replace your air filters at least once a month.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Your air conditioning system relies on refrigerant to remove heat and provide cooling. However, your system will only work effectively if there’s enough refrigerant in it. The coolant converts the hot air into the cold air you’re pumping out, but low coolant levels cause the coils within the unit to become too cold, leading to ice forming on them. Checking your refrigerant levels regularly is crucial, as they can escape due to duct leaks and corrosion. A professional trained in HVAC repair can assist in recharging your system with refrigerant gas, allowing the coils to function correctly.
3. Faulty Thermostat
A faulty thermostat may lead to freezing-up issues. The thermostat controls when your air conditioner turns on and off. If it isn’t working properly, your air conditioning system may run longer than it should, leading to coils getting too cold and eventually freezing over. Check your thermostat calibration to ensure it’s functioning correctly, and if it’s not, consider installing a new one.
4. Dirty Coils
Dirty evaporator coils can also be a major factor in an HVAC system freezing up. When the coils become dirty, it prevents them from absorbing heat efficiently, leading to lower temperatures than normal. This causes the evaporator coil to drop below the freezing point, which leads to ice formation and, ultimately, a frozen HVAC system. To prevent this from happening, it is important to have your coils cleaned regularly as part of routine maintenance.
5. Poor Airflow
Another significant contributor to freezing-up issues is poor airflow. The air conditioning component will freeze when the air conditioner is working excessively, leading to the formation of ice on the coils. Inspect vents in your home to ensure they are open and not blocked by furniture to ensure proper airflow.
6. Electrical Issues
Electrical issues can also cause an HVAC system to freeze up. When the HVAC system’s electrical components malfunction, the HVAC system runs longer than necessary, causing the evaporator coils to drop below the freezing point. This ultimately leads to a frozen HVAC system. To prevent this from happening, it is important to hire a certified HVAC technician to perform routine maintenance checks to ensure the electrical components are functioning correctly.
7. Maintenance Neglect
For your HVAC system to work correctly, regular maintenance is essential. The older your air conditioning system gets, the worse it’s likely to perform. Components typically loosen and wear out, refrigerant gas can leak, and coils can become more susceptible to freezing over. To avoid these issues, it’s important to have your system maintained by a professional HVAC company like HB Home Service Team (PA) at least twice a year—once in the spring before you turn it on for the summer and once in the fall before it’s time to switch over to heat.
Contact Us Today
If your HVAC system is freezing up, it’s crucial to identify the problem quickly. Leaving it too long can lead to more significant – and more expensive – issues in the future. Working with an experienced HVAC company such as HB Home Service Team (PA), you can quickly and efficiently resolve any issues with your air conditioning system. From regular maintenance checks to fixing your system when it’s acting up, we’re here to ensure you and your family can enjoy a comfortable and cool home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our HVAC specialists.
