It’s the middle of a hot Texas day, and you notice your air conditioner isn’t cooling like it should. You check the unit and—what’s this? Ice? If your AC is freezing up, it may seem strange, especially when it’s battling 90-degree weather. But believe it or not, a frozen AC is a common issue, and if it’s not addressed quickly, it can lead to serious (and expensive) repairs.
At Texas Air Authorities, we’ve been helping homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with AC issues since 1999. Our NATE-certified technicians know exactly what causes your unit to freeze—and more importantly, how to fix it fast. Let’s break down what’s going on and what you can do.
Why Is My AC Freezing Up?
Air conditioners freeze for a few key reasons, and they all boil down to two main things: restricted airflow or low refrigerant. Here’s a closer look:
1. Dirty Air Filters
When your air filter is clogged, air can’t move freely through the system. This causes the evaporator coil to get too cold, eventually leading to ice buildup. It’s one of the most common (and easily preventable) causes of a frozen AC.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak or improper charge, the pressure in the system drops. This lowers the temperature of the evaporator coil and can cause freezing. Low refrigerant is a more serious issue that requires professional attention right away.
3. Blocked or Closed Vents
Closing too many supply vents or blocking return vents with furniture can reduce airflow and cause the system to freeze. Every room needs proper air circulation for the system to function correctly.
4. Dirty Evaporator Coils
Dust and grime on your evaporator coil act as insulation, preventing it from absorbing heat. This can cause moisture on the coil to freeze, starting a chain reaction that affects the whole system.
5. Blower Fan Issues
If the blower fan isn’t running correctly, it won’t move enough air over the coil. This can result in freezing even if everything else seems fine.
What You Should Do If Your AC Freezes Up
Step 1: Turn Off the AC
First things first—turn the unit off. Letting it continue to run while frozen can cause damage to the compressor, which is a much more expensive problem to fix.
Step 2: Switch the Thermostat to “Fan” Mode
Set your thermostat to “Fan Only.” This will help circulate warm air and speed up the thawing process. It could take several hours for all the ice to melt, depending on how bad the freeze-up is.
Step 3: Check and Replace Your Air Filter
If your filter is dirty, replace it immediately. This simple step can restore airflow and may be all that’s needed to prevent another freeze-up.
Step 4: Inspect Vents and Ducts
Make sure all supply and return vents are open and unblocked. Good airflow is key to preventing frozen coils.
Step 5: Call Texas Air Authorities
If the issue continues, it’s time to call in the professionals. Whether you have low refrigerant, a faulty blower motor, or a hidden ductwork issue, our experienced technicians will diagnose the problem quickly and offer a same-day solution.
Prevent It from Happening Again
Routine maintenance is the best way to avoid freeze-ups in the future. At Texas Air Authorities, we offer full HVAC maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly year-round. Our techs clean the coils, inspect refrigerant levels, check the blower motor, and replace filters so your system can breathe easy.
And remember, we offer:
- Same-day appointments
- Free estimates and same-day quotes
- 1-year warranty on all new equipment
- NATE-certified, friendly technicians
We serve communities all over the DFW Metroplex, including Arlington, Fort Worth, Mansfield, Grand Prairie, and beyond.
Conclusion
A frozen AC might seem like a strange problem in the middle of summer, but it’s more common than you’d think. The good news? With a little know-how—and help from the team at Texas Air Authorities—you can get back to cool, comfortable air in no time.
Give us a call today, and we’ll make sure your system is running right—no ice included
Texas Air Authorities is the premier choice for HVAC services in Arlington. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Texas Air Authorities for all of your HVAC needs in Arlington.
