Seeing ice on your air conditioner, especially in the middle of a hot summer, can be surprising and confusing. While it may seem like your system is just working overtime to keep your home cool, ice buildup is actually a sign of a problem. Left unchecked, it can lead to poor performance, higher energy bills, or even permanent damage to your system. Absolute P&M Services would like to take a closer look at the most common reasons for ice forming on your air conditioner unit, what it means, and what you should do if it happens.

What Causes Ice to Form on an Air Conditioner?

Restricted Airflow: The most common cause of air conditioner icing is restricted airflow. When not enough warm air flows over the evaporator coils, they can get too cold and cause moisture in the air to freeze on the coils. Possible reasons for restricted airflow include:
• Dirty or clogged air filter
• Closed or blocked vents
• Obstructed return air ducts
• Blower motor issues
Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Make sure all vents are open and unblocked. If the issue continues, call a professional to inspect the system.
Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is what your air conditioner uses to absorb heat from inside your home. If there is a leak or low refrigerant level, the pressure in your system drops, causing the evaporator coil to get too cold and ice to form. Signs of low refrigerant:
• Ice on the coils or refrigerant lines
• Air conditioner blowing warm or room-temperature air
• Hissing or bubbling noises from the system
A licensed HVAC technician will inspect for leaks, repair them, and recharge the refrigerant. Do not attempt to handle refrigerant yourself.
Dirty Evaporator Coils: Dust, dirt, and debris on the evaporator coils act as insulation, preventing the coil from properly absorbing heat. This can cause the coil to get too cold and eventually freeze. Schedule a professional air conditioner cleaning and maintenance visit to safely clean the coils and check for other performance issues.
Mechanical Failures: Problems with internal components like the blower fan, thermostat, or expansion valve can prevent your system from operating correctly and result in ice buildup. Have a technician inspect your system to identify and repair mechanical issues before they lead to more serious damage.

What Should You Do if You See Ice on Your Air Conditioner

• Turn off the air conditioner immediately: Continuing to run it can damage the compressor.
• Check and replace the air filter: A clogged filter may be the issue.
• Let the ice melt completely: You may need to wait several hours before the system can be safely restarted.
• Call an HVAC professional: If the problem continues, you’ll need expert diagnosis and repair.

Prevent Ice Buildup with Regular AC Maintenance

The best way to avoid ice on your air conditioner is with regular HVAC maintenance. A seasonal tune-up can catch issues like refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, and airflow problems before they turn into costly repairs.

Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas

For air conditioner maintenance, repairs, and system inspections to keep your home cool and worry free, contact Absolute P&M Service today to schedule your service and make sure your system is ready for the summer heat!