It seems unlikely during the dog days of summer, but ice can easily form on your air conditioning unit when there are problems with operation. In general, ice forms because of blocked airflow or a leak in the refrigerant line. Both issues can require professional HVAC service, so be prepared to schedule repairs if you notice any of the following. 

Blocked or Low Airflow

The evaporator coils in your A/C unit can reach unbelievably cold temperatures thanks to the refrigerant swirling around inside. When air blows over these coils, it becomes cooler before being dispersed around the rest of your home. If there are airflow problems, evaporator coils will dip below freezing, causing ice to form. 

A dirty air filter is a common reason for restricted airflow. Air filters clean the air of pollen, dust, and other contaminants, but when they become too soiled, air will be unable to flow through freely. This is a simple fix since all you’ll need to do is change the air filter to a new one. However, if the problem is with your blower fan (which helps push air through the unit) or a blocked air duct, you’ll likely need professional assistance. 

Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerant in your air conditioning unit cools the air in your home by absorbing heat from it. When there is a leak in the refrigerant line, the temperature in the evaporator coils can drop right along with the pressure. Refrigerant levels should always remain consistent because of the closed look system. When levels are lower than normal, a leak is the only cause. 

Leaks are often accompanied by a hissing or whistling noise within the unit. You may also notice that warm is air blowing out of your machine even when on the cool setting. If you experience any of these issues, schedule service as soon as possible. An HVAC repair tech may be able to replace the leaking refrigerant line. You may also need to purchase a new unit if there are substantial problems. 

With over five decades of experience under their belts, Smith Air Conditioning in Ville Platte, LA, can figure out why ice is forming on your air conditioning unit. From there, they can perform the necessary repairs or help you find a suitable replacement. They also offer preventative maintenance, which keeps problems from occurring in the first place. Call (337) 363-1866 to get a free estimate or visit the website to learn more about the services offered.