7 Steps: What To Do When Your AC Unit Freezes Up Inside

What to Do When Your AC Unit Freezes Up Inside

Whenever your AC inside the house fails to work correctly – especially if it is cold inside – it is always a tad awkward. Many of you may have stumbled upon this problem and know how it impacts home Comfort. This guide will explain exactly what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside, helping you identify the problem, fix it, and prevent future occurrences.

Why does my AC unit freeze inside?

However, let’s learn the cause of an AC unit freezing on the inside before moving toward the solutions. Common causes include:

1. Restricted Airflow: Often, the filters are dirty, or the air supply vents are blocked, which results in the icing of the evaporator coils.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant affects the coil’s temperature, which might freeze seriously.
3. Thermostat Issues: An improper thermostat setting puts the unit under much pressure and can freeze.
4. Mechanical Problems: A blower motor or fan that has developed faults can cause the required airflow to vanish.

Now, let’s explore what to do when your AC unit freezes up step by step.

Step 1: Shut off the AC unit as soon as you notice the occurrences.

Among the initial steps you can take when you realize that your AC unit has ice buildup indoors, you need to turn the system off. Operating the system with a frozen component risks damaging the system, especially the compressor. Set the temperature setting at the thermostat to “Off,” but keep the fan working continuously.

• The ice formed on the evaporator coil.
• Avoid aggravating the condition of the unit.

Understanding what to do when your AC unit freezes inside at this stage is vital to avoid long-term issues.

Step 2: Check for the Symptoms of Dirty Air Filters

Sometimes, coils are frozen because air filters are dirty or clogged, restricting airflow.

• Trace the air filter to check its position, although it is usually on the return air duct or inside the unit.
• Take a look if the car has dust, be careful if you see dirt, dust, or something like that.
• If the filter exists, then clean it; otherwise, replace it. For reusable filters, wash them.

Make it a habit to check your air filters every 30 days to prevent future problems. This is a key step in addressing what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside.

Step 3: Check for Blocked Air Vents

Blocked or closed vents restrict airflow, which can cause your AC unit to freeze inside. To address this:

• Stroll around your house and ensure each vent is open and transparent from any barrier.
• Any furniture pieces, curtains, or other items covering the vents should be cleared away.
• Close the register and turn off the furnace if you see rodents or signs of rodents.

This simple step can restore proper airflow and prevent freezing. Knowing what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside can save you a lot of hassle.

Step 4: Examine the Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is the component that often freezes when the AC unit malfunctions. To inspect it:

• Turn off the AC unit and allow it to thaw completely.
• Open the access panel to locate the coil.
• Check for ice buildup or signs of damage.
• If the coil is dirty, clean it carefully with a coil cleaner.

Note: Contact a professional HVAC technician if you’re uncomfortable handling this. Understanding what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside is critical.

Step 5: Monitor Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC unit to freeze up inside. Signs of low refrigerant include:

• Hissing or bubbling noises from the unit.
• Warm air blowing from the vents.

To resolve this:

• Contact a licensed HVAC technician to check and recharge the refrigerant levels. Handling refrigerant without proper certification is dangerous and illegal in many areas.

Monitoring refrigerant is necessary when considering what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside.

Step 6: Why not finally change the thermostat settings

Therefore, avoiding using the wrong thermostat settings is essential because this will cause your AC unit to freeze. Follow these tips:

• Adjust the temperature knob in a rational and unvarying manner.
• Do not set it too low, especially in a humid region.
• Decide to use a programmable thermostat to gain better control of the temperature.

This simple adjustment can improve efficiency and prevent future freezing. It’s an important strategy when learning what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside.

Step 7: Schedule Regular Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your AC unit in top shape. Professional tune-ups can help you:

• Identify and fix issues before they escalate.
• Ensure all components are functioning correctly.
• Extend the lifespan of your AC unit.

Aim to schedule maintenance at least once a year, preferably before the cooling season begins. Regular maintenance ensures you know what to do when your AC unit freezes up inside.

How to Save Your Air Conditioner from Freezing Inside

Preventing a disease is always easier and cheaper than treating it. Here are additional tips to avoid freezing issues:

• Seal Air Leaks: Weatherstrip windows and doors to minimize internal drafts so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.
• Keep the Area Around the Unit Clear: They also should guarantee enough space in the outdoor unit for good ventilation.
• Monitor Humidity Levels: Accomplish indoor airflow humidity using a dehumidifier.
• Clean the Drain Line: Clear the condensate drain line often so there shouldn’t be cases of blockage.

Conclusion

Knowing what to do when your AC unit freezes inside can save you time, money, and stress. As shown by the seven steps illustrated above and the preventive measures mentioned, your AC system will remain efficient throughout the year. Anytime you doubt the steps below or see signs of a more serious problem, do not hesitate to call an HVAC technician.

FAQs

Q1. How much response time does it take for an AC unit to thaw when frozen?

It usually takes about an hour and three hours to thaw out a frozen AC unit, depending on the model and how deep it is frozen. One may turn off the system and operate the fan to speed up the process.

Q2. Can you continue to use your AC unit when it develops an ice formation?

You do not run a frozen AC unit because it will ruin the compressor and other system parts. Always switch off and then deal with the problem first.

Q3. During periods of high humidity, why do I find so much frost beginning to form inside my AC unit?

If relative humidity is high the percentage of moisture content in the air also rises. If airflow to the evaporator is insufficient or where the amount of refrigerant is low, it can form ice on the evaporator coil.

Q4. What should I do if my AC unit repeatedly freezes?

However, if your AC unit continues to freeze, issues with airflow, dusty filters, and low refrigerant supply will occur. If the problem persists, see an expert technician.

Q5. When does an air filter require changing?

Clean or replace disposable air filters once a month up to thrice a year, depending on their frequency of use and the condition of the indoor environment. Permanent filters for ACs should be washed monthly.

Do you have questions, or are you ready to start your next project? Explore our services at AiRCO Mechanical!