With temperatures rising throughout North Carolina, a functioning air conditioning unit is necessary for beating the summer heat. Unfortunately, air conditioners sometimes develop ice on the evaporator coils and stop working, even under hot weather conditions. There are several reasons why this prevalent problem occurs, but there are steps you can take to fix the issue. 

How Should You Handle Your Air Conditioning Unit if It Freezes?

The first thing you should do if your air conditioner is icing up is to turn it off and let it thaw out. Depending on the extent of the freeze, thawing out the unit can take up to a day. During that time, it’s best not to run the system. If it’s left running while the evaporator coil is frozen, the compressor can become strained and sustain damage. Once the ice melts, dry the equipment quickly by turning the unit on and using the “fan” setting on your thermostat. 

Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze?

Poor Airflow 

To effectively cool a room, the air conditioner must have an adequate flow of warm air circulating over the evaporator coil to produce a heat exchange. If the airflow is lacking, there won’t be enough warm air to stop condensation on the coil from freezing. 

Dirty Coils 

The interior components of an air conditioner can collect debris, including the evaporator coils. Too much dirt and dust can restrict airflow and generate freezing. 

Broken Blower Fan 

The unit’s blower fan helps circulate air through the air conditioner and into your home. If the fan is damaged or malfunctions, it can lead to condensation buildup on the evaporator coils or cause the refrigerant line to freeze. 

Keep your air conditioner from freezing when you need it most through regular maintenance, such as changing air filters and cleaning the evaporator coils. It’s also necessary to schedule a tuneup with a professional HVAC contractor who will thoroughly inspect and repair the system so the chances of it freezing are significantly reduced.

Stay comfortable this summer and keep your air conditioning unit from freezing by contacting the professionals at All Comfort Control Heating & Cooling. As Thomasville, NC’s go-to HVAC contractor for more than 28 years, they provide a variety of superior HVAC services, including repairs to all makes and models of heating equipment and air conditioners, duct cleaning, and air filtration installations. Call (336) 472-7986 to schedule a consultation or visit them online to learn more about their services.