Frozen AC? Call for Air Conditioning Repair in Charlotte, NC
The buildup of ice and frost is a sure indication that your air conditioner is not running properly. This could be due to reduced or no airflow and/or low refrigerant levels. Running your air conditioner in this condition can cause permanent damage. Call Patterson Heating and Air Conditioning in Charlotte for repair services.
The first thing you should do when you notice your air conditioner is frozen is to shut it off and let it defrost. There are numerous reasons why this occurs. Home Guide at SFGate.com states:
“When the refrigerant inside an air conditioning system falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity on the evaporator coil freezes. The coils become encased in ice, and the air conditioner fails to cool the home sufficiently. “
Insufficient Air Flow
Anything that may restrict airflow into the air conditioner can cause the temperature of the system’s evaporator coil to drop below freezing. The water vapor in the air will collect on the coils, causing ice to build up and severely impair the air conditioner’s cooling capacity. Aside from this, dirty air filters; collapsed, obstructed, and undersized ductwork, or damaged blower motors also contribute to ice buildup.
Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant leaks, as well as low refrigerant levels, can also cause the temperature inside the air conditioner’s evaporator coils to drop. Patterson Heating and Air can check this immediately and either repair the leak or replenish the refrigerant. Fortunately, preventing a freeze-up is quite possible. One way to keep frost and ice buildup at bay is by keeping refrigerant at ideal levels. During an annual maintenance visit, refrigerant levels are checked and replenished, as well as checking for any leaks. Keeping the airflow unobstructed is also vital. The AC unit’s air filters should regularly be changed, ideally every three months. More serious airflow and refrigeration problems may require professional intervention from Patterson Heating and Air.
Air conditioning freeze ups are cause for concern, but normally can be rectified. You can prolong the life of your HVAC system by performing an annual precision tune-up. Patterson Heating and Air can troubleshoot serious airflow problems and repair refrigerant leaks before freeze ups happen. Call to schedule a check-up today: (704) 288-4535.
(Source: How to tell if Your Air Conditioner is Frozen, SFGate.com)
