Why Your HVAC Is Freezing up in Summer
As summer rolls in, so does the heat. The last thing you want to worry about is your HVAC freezing up. Even though it’s hot outside, it’s common to see HVACs freezing up in summer for a variety of reasons.
In this guide, we’ll help you discover five of the most common reasons why this happens and what you can do to prevent them from happening in the future.
6 Reasons Your AC Unit is Freezing Up in Summer
Here are five reasons why your AC is freezing up in hot weather:
1. Clogged Air Filter
One of the primary reasons for HVAC freezing is a clogged air filter. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris accumulate in the filter, restricting proper airflow.
Reduced airflow causes the evaporator coil to become excessively cold, leading to ice formation. Regularly replacing or cleaning the air filter can prevent this issue.
2. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is an important part of your HVAC system. It cools it down but if there is a leak, the amount of refrigerant will drop. This will result in a temperature imbalance and will cause an HVAC frozen coil. This is one of those jobs that is best left to professional HVAC companies.
3. Clogged Drain Lines
Your HVAC drain lines carry moisture away that is produced during the refrigeration cycle. Naturally, where there is water there is algae and debris. When these things clog up the drain lines it slows down the drainage causing the system to freeze.
The best way to prevent this is with regular maintenance by a trained professional. Checking and cleaning out the drain lines once per season will keep everything flowing smoothly.
4. Dirty Coils
The evaporator and condenser coils in your HVAC system are responsible for absorbing and releasing heat, respectively. However, when these coils become dirty or covered in grime, they cannot perform efficiently.
As a result, the evaporator coil can become too cold and freeze up. Regular coil cleaning by a professional HVAC technician is crucial to avoid this problem.
5. Broken Thermostat
If your thermostat is not functioning properly, it can lead to a whole host of problems. One of the main issues is that your HVAC system may run longer than necessary which leads to potential freezing.
When the thermostat does not properly detect temperatures, the unit will continuously run because the thermostat is telling it to. Contact an HVAC specialist to diagnose and repair or replace the faulty thermostat.
6. Aging System
Your HVAC system has a lifespan and many of the components within will age at different frequencies. Coils and fans are usually the first things to go because they collect a lot of dust and handle a lot of the work.
Wear and tear on the system can start to break down various parts which leads to freezing issues. Eventually, you might need to decide if you want to continue fixing the old system or pay to get a new installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding an HVAC freezing up in the summer.
What to do when HVAC freezes up in summer?
If you notice your HVAC system freezing up, the first step is to turn off the cooling function and let the ice melt naturally. Ensure proper airflow by checking and replacing/cleaning the air filter.
When the issue persists, contact a professional HVAC technician to identify and resolve the underlying cause.
Can I fix the frozen AC myself?
Cleaning air filters and drainage hoses can be performed by experienced homeowners but more serious issues like refrigerant leaks and malfunctioning thermostats should be addressed by a trained professional. Attempting to fix these issues on your own can result in further damage or personal injury.
Final Thoughts
Understanding why your HVAC system freezes up in summer is important so you can prevent these types of issues from occurring in the future. Remember that it’s essential to jump on these problems right away so you’re not stuck in the heat without a functioning HVAC system.
By regularly maintaining your system, including changing air filters, cleaning coils, and scheduling professional inspections, you can minimize the risk of freezing and ensure your HVAC system operates smoothly and efficiently throughout the hot summer months.
Remember, when in doubt, it is always best to seek assistance from a qualified HVAC technician. Let us handle all your HVAC needs so you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long!