Your air conditioner’s evaporator coil is a crucial component in the cooling process. This coil, typically made of copper, is filled with refrigerant, which absorbs heat from your indoor air, cooling it before circulating it back into your home. However, when something disrupts this process, the coil can freeze over, leading to inefficiency, discomfort, and potential system damage. Want to know why this happens, how to recognize the signs, and what to do about it? Keep reading!
What are the causes of AC evaporator coil freezing?
Several factors can cause an AC evaporator coil freezing, disrupting your air conditioning system’s performance. Key reasons include:
- Dirty evaporator coil When dust and debris accumulate on the coil, they act as an insulator, preventing the coil from properly absorbing heat. This disruption can lead to ice formation.
- Restricted airflow Your AC needs proper airflow to function correctly. A dirty air filter, blocked vents, or a failing blower motor can reduce airflow, preventing warm air from reaching the evaporator coil and causing it to freeze.
- Low refrigerant levels While low refrigerant itself does not cause freezing, it can lead to a drop in coil temperature. A refrigerant leak or improper charge can result in insufficient heat absorption, making the coil excessively cold.
- Broken thermostat If your thermostat is faulty or incorrectly set, it may cause the AC unit to run longer than necessary, overcooling the evaporator coil and leading to ice buildup.
By addressing these problems, you can minimize the risk of your coil freezing up and ensure optimal AC performance.
5 signs that the evaporator coil is frozen on air conditioners
Identifying a frozen evaporator coil on your AC early can prevent further damage to your system. Here are some key signs to watch for:
- Visible ice on the coil If you inspect your indoor unit and see ice covering the evaporator coil, this is a clear indication of freezing.
- Increased humidity levels Faulty coils can disrupt the dehumidification process, leading to higher indoor humidity.
- Warm air blowing from vents If your unit is running but the air coming from the vents is not cool, it may be due to a coil preventing proper heat exchange.
- Longer AC run times When the evaporator coil is frozen, air conditioners may run longer in an attempt to reach the set temperature, resulting in higher energy bills.
- Water leaks around the unit As ice melts, water may accumulate around the indoor AC indicating previous coil freezing.
4 steps to defrost a frozen evaporator coil on your AC unit
If the AC evaporator coil is frozen, you need to act carefully. Follow these steps to safely thaw the coil and restore your system’s functionality.
Step 1: Turn off your air conditioner
The first step is to turn off your unit. Running your unit with a frozen coil can cause serious damage to the compressor and other components. Switch off the system at the thermostat and, if necessary, at the circuit breaker to ensure it’s completely powered down.
Step 2: Let the system defrost on its own
Once the system is turned off, allow the evaporator coil to thaw on its own. This process may take a few hours, depending on the extent of the freezing. It’s important not to use any external heat sources, such as a hairdryer or heater, as this could cause damage to the coil or surrounding components. Patience is key in this step.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the coil
After the coil has completely thawed, take the opportunity to inspect and clean it. A frozen coil is often caused by dirt and debris buildup, so cleaning the coil is crucial. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or dirt, and if needed, use a gentle cleaner. Be sure to clean around the coil as well to ensure proper airflow.
Step 4: Power the system back on
Once the coil is clean and fully defrosted, it’s time to turn the AC system back on. Monitor the performance carefully. If the air conditioner evaporator coil freezing recurs, it may indicate an underlying problem that requires professional assistance, it could indicate an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
Remember! This content is for informational purposes only. Any AC repair, installation, or maintenance should be performed by certified technicians to avoid damage and ensure proper operation.
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REFERENCES
1. Ali, A. H. H., & Ismail, I. M. (2007). Effects of condensate and initial formation of thin frost layer on evaporator coil performance of room air-conditioners. EDITORIAL BOARD, 1(2), 69. https://jjmie.hu.edu.jo/files/JJMIE-V1-N2-web.pdf
2. Mader, G., & Thybo, C. (2012). A new method of defrosting evaporator coils. Applied Thermal Engineering, 39, 78-85. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1359431112000427
