When frozen AC coils stop an HVAC system dead in its tracks, it typically indicates a larger issue flying under the radar. Evaporator and condenser coils don’t freeze up on their own, so this is a symptom of some other issue that isn’t directly connected to their daily function.
Pro Comfort Control provides trusted AC repair services in Dover, MA. Below, we’ve outlined five common reasons behind freezing air conditioner coils and how to prevent the frost.
#1 Let Air Flow Freely
One of the most common reasons behind frozen AC coils is restricted airflow. Obstructions in your vents or around your equipment can prevent air from freely flowing around the coils. This keeps sufficient heat from circulating close enough to melt ice crystals as they form.
Eliminating airflow obstructions is easy! Just:
- Regularly change your dirty air filters
- Open vent grates
- Maintain two feet of clearance around your indoor and outdoor HVAC equipment
These measures help you enable air to move freely, which lets the coils and other components breathe.
#2 Calibrate Your Thermostat
An outdated or miscommunicating thermostat might send the wrong temperature signals to your HVAC equipment. The system will run for too long, which places unnecessary strain on the components. Over time, this simple thermostat malfunction may cause components to seize or become coated in dust, which is a recipe for frozen air conditioner coils.
Make sure your device has plenty of battery power. You should also ensure your thermostat is firmly attached to the wall with a responsive interface and accurate temperature readings. An HVAC technician in Dover, Massachusetts, can calibrate it during a tune-up.
#3 Keep the Drain Line Clean
Air conditioners produce lots of condensation while they cool the air. They pull humidity out of the indoor atmosphere to keep the air as dry as it is cool. Your system empties that moisture into a condensate drain that guides the water out of the building.
If the drain develops a clog in the drain line, the trapped water may lead to frozen AC coils. Inspect the drain pan regularly throughout the summer, using a wet/dry vacuum to suck up pooling water. Contact an HVAC technician about recurring line blockages.
#4 Have Your Refrigerant Checked by an Expert
Refrigerant and coils go hand in hand. The refrigerant moves through the evaporator and condenser coils, releasing any heat it gathers as it moves. Low refrigerant levels mean less heat to release, and if the coils continue working at the same level with less heat moving through them, they could freeze over.
Your trusted HVAC provider can check the refrigerant levels, inspect for line leaks, and patch any punctures enabling the substance to escape. Then, they can refill your refrigerant safely.
#5 Book Annual Air Conditioner Maintenance in Dover, Massachusetts
What do all these air conditioning issues have in common? You can solve them all at one time through annual cooling tune-ups in Dover, Massachusetts!
Professional technicians like Pro Comfort Control tackle big and small concerns during routine HVAC system maintenance visits, including:
- Cleaning air conditioner coils
- Changing your air filters
- Checking and topping off your refrigerant levels
- Clearing the drain line
- Calibrating and resetting the thermostat
- Fixing minor operational problems
These small efforts go a long way in keeping coils functional and extending the whole HVAC system’s service life. Ask about Pro Comfort Control’s exclusive perks!
Ask Pro Comfort Control About Joining The Comfort Club To Avoid Frozen AC Coils in Dover, Massachusetts
Once you join The Comfort Club, you’ll make frozen AC coils a thing of the past. If you want to learn more about caring for your HVAC system, check out our homeowner’s AC troubleshooting guide. We share how to diagnose common problems in Dover, Massachusetts.
Contact Pro Comfort Control about an affordable maintenance membership today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions we hear regarding frozen AC coils.
Can Frozen Evaporator Coils Damage My Air Conditioner?
Yes, frozen evaporator coils can damage your air conditioner. They strain the blower motor, compressor, and other expensive, complicated components if you don’t thaw them safely.
Will a Frozen Coil Fix Itself After Leaving the HVAC System Off?
No, a frozen coil won’t fix itself after leaving the HVAC system off. It will thaw out, but you need to address the underlying cause.
Can Constantly Running the Air Conditioner Cause Frozen AC Coils?
No, constantly running the air conditioner shouldn’t cause frozen AC coils. However, over time, constant cycling and high demands can cause faster wear and lead to frozen coils.