A common reason for calling in for HVAC repair is ice buildup during the summer. If you have ever had this problem crop up, you may have been left scratching your head at how your unit freezes when it’s 90 degrees outside. Here’s a brief guide to show two reasons why ice can form on air conditioning units.

Icing Due to Restricted Airflow

Causes

Your HVAC unit creates cool air by using a fan to pull air across evaporator coils that are filled with a refrigerant. If there is not enough airflow, then there is not enough warm air passing through, and the coils ice over. If the air that does pass through is humid, then the ice builds up even faster. 

Preventive Measures

Airflow issues can be caused by something as simple as a dirty air filter or by more complex issues like a worn-out blower fan or collapsed air ducts, which may require an HVAC repair call. The easiest way to avoid this situation is to make sure your return air filters are always clean by checking and replacing them frequently.

In addition to checking the return air filter, you should occasionally check to make sure no debris is bypassing your filter and collecting on the evaporator coils themselves. Also, make sure nothing can fall on and crush any exposed air ducts, such as those that run across attic crawl spaces.

Icing Due to Low Refrigerant

Causes

If your filters are clean, ducts are secure, and your evaporator coil and blower fan are in good condition, you may have low refrigerant. Normally your refrigerant level does not change because it is in a closed loop.

If you have warm air coming through your vents, increasingly high electric bills, or if you start hearing hissing near your refrigerant lines, you may have a leak.

Preventive Measures

Usually, your refrigerant loop will be fairly well protected, so you are not likely to damage it. Besides damage to the outside loop, the pressure on the system may eventually find a weak point in the copper line or the evaporator coils themselves.

In either case, a leak in your refrigerant system will require professional HVAC repair. Just make sure they repair the leak before recharging the system.

 

If your HVAC unit is freezing up, and it’s not as simple as a clogged filter, you may need to call for HVAC repair. When you’re looking for an HVAC contractor, consider Illy HVAC in St. Peters, MO. With over 30 years of experience, this locally owned and operated HVAC contractor promises to exceed expectations and deliver quality, reliable services with all repairs, maintenance, and new installations. Call them today at (314) 808-2162 or visit them online for more information.