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I can't believe my air conditioner is frozen! It's been over 90 degrees for days on end.
As crazy as this sounds, this happens all too frequently. Even with seasonal maintenance and changing your filter regularly, it can happen. Here's some information on WHY it happens, and some tips on how to handle a frozen AC when it DOES happen.

Lack of Air Flow

This is one of the most common reasons many air conditioners freeze up. Anytime you have limited airflow (dirty filters or undersized ducts) you are running the risk of causing the temperature of your AC’s cooling coil to drop below freezing. Basically, as warm air moves through your return ducts, it passes over extremely cold refrigerant coil to drop off its heat. While it comes into contact with the coil, moisture in the air condenses. Normally it will roll right off into the drain line. However, if the AC’s airflow is compromised, the water will not move and will end up freezing to the coil! Normally, changing the filters is enough to fix this problem. If your air conditioner is freezing up due to undersized ducts, you should call Home Comfort Experts and have one of our expert technicians take a look at your problem and offer their suggestions.

Refrigerant Leaks

The amount of refrigerant in your air conditioner has to be carefully balanced if you want to keep your air conditioner running smoothly. If there is too little refrigerant in your coil, it will not be able to absorb enough heat and will end up freezing.

Outdoor Temperature

Summer is supposed to be hot, but when it gets especially cold at night, there is a chance that your air conditioner could freeze up. Air conditioners don’t do well when temperatures are below 60 F. Fortunately, at these temperatures you don’t really even need to use your AC at all! If temperatures drop this low, turn off the AC and throw open the windows. You’ll save your air conditioner, and save some money at the same time!

How to Fix a Frozen Air Conditioner

To fix a frozen air conditioner  first you have to figure out what caused it to freeze up in the first place. If your air conditioner is frozen, it’s essential to act quickly to avoid causing further damage to your system. Here's a step-by-step guide to fixing a frozen AC:

1. Turn Off the AC and Let It Defrost

The first thing you should do is turn off your AC to stop the freezing process. Allow the system to defrost completely, which could take several hours depending on the severity of the freeze. Turning off the system prevents further damage to the coils and the rest of the AC components.

2. Inspect and Replace the Air Filter

One of the most common reasons for a frozen air conditioner is restricted airflow caused by a dirty or clogged filter. If your filter is dirty, replace or clean it immediately. Here's how you can check and clean or replace the filter:

• Remove the filter from the unit.
• Check for visible dirt or blockages.
• If it looks dirty, replace it with a new one, or if it’s reusable, wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Make sure to install the filter correctly once it's cleaned or replaced.

3. Examine the Evaporator Coils

While your system is defrosting, you should inspect the evaporator coils for any ice buildup. If ice is present, you can gently use a cloth to wipe away some of the excess ice once it has started to thaw. However, avoid scraping the ice off as this could damage the coils.

4. Check the Refrigerant Levels

If the system was low on refrigerant, it might be contributing to the freezing issue. Low refrigerant levels prevent the system from absorbing heat properly, which can cause ice to form on the coils. Contact a professional technician to check and replenish refrigerant levels if needed.

5. Clear Obstructions in the Vents or Ducts

Poor airflow caused by blocked vents or ducts can also lead to a frozen air conditioner. Inspect the air vents in your home to ensure they are clear of debris or obstructions. If there are any blockages, clear them out so the air can flow freely through the system.

6. Check the Condensate Drain

A clogged condensate drain line can prevent the moisture from draining properly, causing it to freeze on the coils. Ensure that the drain line is clear. If the line is clogged, you may need to clear the blockage with a wet-dry vacuum or contact a professional to clean it.

7. Wait and Observe

After completing the steps above, wait for 24 hours to let the system fully thaw. Once thawed, check to see if the ice has completely melted from the evaporator coils and compressor.

Preventing Your AC from Freezing Up

While fixing a frozen AC is important, preventing it from freezing in the first place can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are some steps you can take to keep your cooling system running smoothly:

• Change Air Filters Regularly – A clogged filter restricts airflow and increases the risk of freezing. Replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.
• Schedule Routine Maintenance – Professional tune-ups help identify and fix small issues before they become major problems.
• Keep Vents & Ducts Clear – Blocked or undersized ducts can limit airflow. Make sure vents are open and unblocked by furniture or other obstructions.
• Monitor Refrigerant Levels – Low refrigerant can cause freezing. If you notice reduced cooling performance, have a professional check for leaks.
• Use a Smart Thermostat – Avoid setting your AC too low, especially at night when outdoor temperatures drop. A smart thermostat can help maintain ideal settings.

Taking these proactive steps will help prevent your AC from freezing up, ensuring reliable cooling during the hottest months. For expert maintenance and repairs, contact Home Comfort Experts today!

When to Call the Professionals

If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps above and your AC is still freezing up, it’s time to call in the experts at Home Comfort Experts. A persistent frozen AC could indicate deeper issues like refrigerant leaks, faulty components, or airflow restrictions that require professional attention.

Our skilled technicians will thoroughly inspect your system, identify the root cause, and provide the necessary repairs to restore your cooling system. Don’t let a frozen air conditioner leave you uncomfortable—contact Home Comfort Experts today for fast, reliable service!