AC Frozen Up? Do This First

What to do right now

Do these in order. They protect the compressor and keep melting ice from becoming water damage.

• Turn the AC off at the thermostat. Do not keep running it while there is ice on it.
• Set the fan to On, not Auto. Moving house air over the coil melts the ice faster.
• Give it time to thaw fully. It can take several hours for a heavily iced coil.
• Put towels or a pan under the indoor unit if you see water dripping while it melts.
• Do not chip or scrape the ice. You can puncture the coil.

Why an AC freezes

The indoor coil gets very cold. When too little warm air crosses it, or the refrigerant pressure drops, moisture on the coil turns to ice. The usual causes are:

• A dirty or clogged air filter.
• Closed or blocked vents and return grilles.
• A dirty indoor coil or a weak blower.
• Low refrigerant from a leak.
• Ductwork that is crushed, disconnected or too small for the system.
• A failing blower motor or capacitor that slows the airflow.

What you can check yourself

• Replace the air filter if it is dirty.
• Open every vent and return grille and make sure furniture or rugs are not blocking them.
• After the ice has fully melted, turn the AC back on. If it ices over again, there is a problem that needs a technician.

When to call Cool Guys

Call us if the system freezes again, if you see ice and the filter was already clean, or if water is leaking inside. A technician finds the cause, tells you the price before any work begins, and fixes it. The dispatch fee is $49 and it is waived with any repair. If the system is near the end of its life, we will show you the repair and a replacement option side by side. Replacement estimates are always free.