How Do You Fix a Frozen Air Conditioner?

Ice on your HVAC system in the middle of summer is a strange issue. Don’t worry, it’s actually more common than you might think. Very cold refrigerant coils and moisture in the air can lead to ice formation. As a homeowner, maintaining a comfortable, temperature-controlled home is essential, especially during the hot summer months. A frozen air conditioner is more than an inconvenience, it’s a serious issue that needs prompt attention. Running your AC more frequently and at lower temperatures during summer increases the likelihood of it freezing up. If you see visible ice on your unit you should know how to fix a frozen air conditioner.

How Will I Know If My AC is Frozen?

Aside from visible ice on any part of your HVAC unit, a lack of cool air is a clear sign of a frozen AC. If you feel warm air coming from your supply vents, ice is likely forming somewhere in the system. You might also hear a hissing sound from the unit. If so, take immediate steps to prevent further damage. Your wallet will thank you.

How to Defrost a Frozen AC Unit

Your air conditioner might take from an hour to more than a day to completely defrost. It’s crucial to address it early to prevent further damage and minimize the time without cool air. Follow this step-by-step defrosting guide:

1. Turn Your HVAC Unit Off: Even if it’s sweltering outside, turn off your air conditioner. Running a frozen unit can wear out parts faster and overheat your unit, especially the expensive compressor. Switch your thermostat from COOL to OFF to start the defrosting process.
2. Switch Your Thermostat Fan to ON: Set the HVAC fan to ON to blow warm air over the frozen coils, speeding up the defrosting process. Ensure it’s set to ON and not AUTO to maintain continuous airflow over the frozen areas.
3. Locate the Source of the Problem: Identify what caused your air conditioner to freeze:
   • Dirty Air Filter: Clogged air filters restrict warm air from reaching the coils, causing them to ice over. Replace air filters at least once a month.
   • Dirty Evaporator Coils: Dirt and debris on the evaporator coils cause air restriction, similar to dirty filters.
   • Leaking Refrigerant: Low refrigerant levels drop pressure, allowing moisture to freeze around the coils. Refrigerant leaks are hazardous and should be handled by licensed HVAC technicians.
   • Other Issues: Problems like a collapsed duct, weak blower, or closed valves might cause your AC to freeze. Our HVAC pros can diagnose these less obvious problems.
4. Keep a Close Eye on Your Air Conditioner: As the unit thaws, watch for additional damage like overflowing drain pans or clogged condensation drains. Place towels around the unit to prevent water damage. Once the unit is ice-free and dry, you can turn it back on. Monitor it for any continued issues over the next few hours to a few days.

Can I Pour Hot Water on a Frozen Air Conditioner?

Yes, you can pour hot water on a frozen air conditioner to melt the ice faster. Even warm or running water will help thaw the ice.

Preventive Measures to Avoid a Frozen Air Conditioner

Prevention is better than cure. Here are some steps to prevent a frozen air conditioner:

• Regularly Replace or Clean Your Air Filter: Keeping your air filter clean is crucial. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement or cleaning.
• Schedule Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance can catch potential issues early. A professional technician can inspect your system for malfunctioning components and ensure peak efficiency.
• Ensure Proper Installation: Proper installation prevents problems like freeze-ups. Make sure a professional installs your unit.

Call Fante’s For Expert Air Conditioning Repair

Keep your unit in top shape throughout the summer with regular preventative maintenance and inspections. This can help catch issues early and prevent your air conditioner, and your wallet, from freezing up. If you still have AC problems and you live in New Jersey, call 1-609-445-2939 or contact us today to have a technician come fix your air conditioner, or if you’re still questioning, “How do you fix a frozen air conditioner?”.