During the summer, you will run your air conditioning unit quite often, and as a result of increased use, you might encounter a variety of potential HVAC issues. Among these, you need to watch out for frozen tubes, coils, and pipes due to poor airflow, low refrigerant, and other problems. Here are a handful of ways to keep your cooling system functional throughout the warm season. 

How to Prevent Your Air Conditioning Unit From Freezing

1. Change the Filter

The metal components of your air conditioning units tend to freeze when filters become saturated with dirt and debris, which prevents air from flowing to the coils to defrost them. Clean or change your filter once a month to avoid a potentially dangerous buildup of debris.

2. Add Refrigerant 

When refrigerant levels become low, your air conditioner’s evaporator coils may get too cold and begin to freeze. Refrigerant is what keeps your unit at the correct temperature, not too hot or cold. Maintain the correct level by consistently inspecting the level as well as checking for any structural issues with the unit. One of the most common causes of low refrigerant is leaks, either due to loose hardware or cracks in the reservoir. To maintain normal levels, contact an HVAC contractor to repair any damage to your unit.

3. Turn Off on Cooler Days 

On cooler summer days, when temperatures do not exceed 60 to 70 degrees, your air conditioning units may freeze. If the unit is running at similar temperatures on these days as a day of 80 degrees plus, then the unit will become too cold and begin to freeze. If the temperature outside is pleasant, open your windows and turn on your fans instead of running your AC. Not only will this prevent the unit from freezing, but it will also lower utility bills as the unit will not be using pricey electricity to keep your house cold. 

4. Clean the Coils

Over time, evaporator coils tend to collect dirt and debris, which interferes with their ability to thaw. Clean the coils before the summer to prevent freezing and breakdowns. Throughout the summer, potentially on colder days, turn off the unit and clean the coils. Maintaining the coils will keep your home cool, prevent costly damage, and help avoid the need for pricey air conditioning unit repair.

Keep your home comfortable all year long with HVAC services from Prestige Air Heating & Cooling. For over 15 years, they have provided installations, repairs, and replacements on air conditioning units and heating systems throughout Woodland Park, NJ. Call (973) 500-4040 to request an estimate on a new commercial or residential HVAC system, and visit them online to learn more about discounts and maintenance plans.