Nothing beats coming home to a cool house—so if your AC freezes up on a hot day, it’s more than inconvenient; it’s uncomfortable. A frozen AC isn’t trapped in a block of ice, but rather has moisture that freezes around its coils, causing the system to lose efficiency and stop cooling effectively. At Baldwin Cooling, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical, we’re here to help you resolve the issue quickly! Here’s how to safely thaw a frozen AC unit and get it back in action.
Common Causes of a Frozen AC
Understanding why an AC freezes can help you prevent it from happening again. Here are some common causes:
1. Blocked Airflow
When airflow is obstructed, warm air can’t circulate around the evaporator coils, causing them to freeze. Clogged air registers or a dirty air filter can reduce airflow, preventing proper heat exchange. Without ventilation, coil temperatures can drop below freezing, leading to ice buildup.
2. Faulty Blower Fan
The blower fan keeps air circulating, helping maintain even temperatures throughout the system. When it stops working, cold air becomes denser and can’t move through your home effectively. This can lead to frozen refrigerant lines, causing a blockage in air circulation and creating icy coils.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
If refrigerant levels are low, your AC loses efficiency, leading to temperature drops below freezing on the evaporator coil. This causes humidity to freeze on the coils, affecting the system’s ability to cool your home.
Steps to Thaw Your AC
Fortunately, you can safely defrost your AC unit at home. Follow these steps:
- Turn Off the Thermostat
Begin by switching off your thermostat to stop the cooling process and prevent more ice from forming. - Turn On the Fan
Set the fan to “ON” to help circulate air and thaw the ice. This process may take up to 24 hours. - Dry the Coils
After the ice melts, gently dry the coils with a towel to remove any excess moisture.
If the problem persists, there may be an underlying issue with your system that requires professional attention. Baldwin’s technicians can inspect your AC and provide the necessary repairs to keep it running smoothly.
Contact Baldwin for “Thawsome” AC Repair in Daphne
At Baldwin Cooling, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical, we take pride in servicing Daphne, Alabama, and surrounding areas. If you’re dealing with a frozen AC, our experienced technicians are ready to help. We also offer preventative maintenance services to ensure your AC is in top shape for the summer heat.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home cool all season long!