4 Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Freezing

May 8, 2015

Believe it or not, there is such a thing as your home’s air conditioner getting too cold.

Simply put, your air conditioner can freeze up. There are many reasons why this can happen.

Whether it is a central air conditioner or a window air conditioner is irrelevant.

Your air conditioner is freezing up because something is either causing Freon in your system to expand more than it is designed to or something is preventing the air in your house from transferring its heat into your system.

Top 4 Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Freezing:

1. Insufficient Airflow Across Your Air Conditioner’s Evaporator Coil

One of the most common reasons for an air conditioner to freeze up is insufficient airflow across the evaporator coil. Your air conditioner is designed to drop the temperature of your house by taking heat from it. If the system isn’t properly blowing your inside air over the evaporator coil, then this heat exchange can’t take place. This can be due to dirty air filters, blocked vents, or a failing blower fan.

When the airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil can get too cold, causing moisture in the air to freeze on the coil. Over time, this ice builds up and can cause the entire coil to freeze. Regular maintenance, such as changing air filters and ensuring vents are clear, can prevent this issue.

2. Your Air Conditioner is Low on Freon

Your air conditioner can freeze up due to lower pressure inside the system caused by low Freon levels. Freon is a refrigerant that helps in the cooling process by absorbing heat from your home and releasing it outside. When there is less Freon in your system, it is still being forced to expand the same amount, which leads to more expansion and a cooler temperature.

Low Freon levels usually indicate a leak in the system. If you suspect your air conditioner is low on Freon, it’s important to have a professional check for leaks and recharge the system. Running your air conditioner with low Freon can not only cause it to freeze up but also lead to more serious damage to the compressor.

3. Running Your Air Conditioner When the Outside Air is Below 62 Degrees

Air conditioners are designed to function in a specific temperature range. If you are running your air conditioner when the outside air is below 62 degrees, then the pressure inside your system will drop, and this can cause your air conditioner to freeze up.

During cooler weather, it’s best to turn off your air conditioner and use other methods to keep your home comfortable, such as opening windows for ventilation or using fans. Some modern air conditioning systems come with sensors that automatically adjust the operation based on the outside temperature, but not all systems have this feature.

4. There is a Mechanical Failure

Mechanical failures can also cause your air conditioner to freeze. This could be due to a kink in the refrigerant lines, a blower fan not running, or issues with other components of the system. For example, if the blower fan isn’t working properly, it can’t push enough warm air over the evaporator coil, leading to freezing.

Regular maintenance and inspections by a professional can help identify and fix mechanical issues before they cause significant problems. It’s important to address any unusual noises, reduced cooling performance, or other signs of trouble promptly to prevent your air conditioner from freezing up.

The Importance of Addressing a Frozen Air Conditioner

A frozen air conditioner will not cool your home properly and can cause damage to the system. This problem will not solve itself and ignoring it can lead to more extensive and costly repairs. If you notice that your air conditioner is freezing up, it should be addressed immediately.

While it may seem counterintuitive, an air conditioner can indeed get too cold and freeze up. Understanding the reasons behind this issue, such as insufficient airflow, low Freon levels, running the unit in cold weather, and mechanical failures, can help you prevent it. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any problems will ensure your air conditioner runs efficiently and keeps your home comfortable.

Need AC Repair in South Florida?

Lindstrom has been serving South Florida since 1975 and offers fast, professional air conditioning repair, service, and installation. Contact Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing directly or request service online.