Why Is My AC Freezing Up? Causes & Solutions
- Jean Swafford
- Feb 17
- 2 min read
Understanding Why Your AC Freezes
If you’ve noticed ice forming on your air conditioning unit, it’s a sign that something isn’t working correctly. An AC system should never freeze under normal conditions. A frozen AC can reduce cooling efficiency, cause higher energy bills, and even lead to serious damage if not fixed promptly. At Big Air AC, we frequently help homeowners in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and surrounding areas diagnose and resolve freezing AC issues.
Common Causes of a Frozen AC
1. Restricted Airflow
When airflow is blocked, the evaporator coil can get too cold and freeze up.
Symptoms: Weak airflow from vents, ice buildup on the indoor coil
What You Can Do:
Check and replace dirty air filters
Make sure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed
Inspect for blocked or collapsed ductwork
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant can cause the evaporator coil to drop below freezing, leading to ice buildup.
Symptoms: AC blowing warm air, hissing sounds near the refrigerant lines
What You Can Do:
Look for ice on the copper refrigerant lines
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, call Big Air AC—only a licensed technician can handle refrigerant issues
3. Dirty or Blocked Evaporator Coil
Dust and dirt buildup on the evaporator coil can prevent heat absorption, causing freezing.
Symptoms: Reduced cooling, ice forming inside the indoor unit
What You Can Do:
Turn off the AC and let the ice melt
Schedule a professional coil cleaning service
4. Faulty Blower Motor
The blower motor is responsible for circulating air through the system. If it’s not working properly, airflow is restricted, leading to ice buildup.
Symptoms: No air coming from vents, unusual motor noises
What You Can Do:
Check if the fan is running when the AC is on
If the motor is not working, contact Big Air AC for a same-day repair
5. Thermostat Issues
A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the AC to run longer than necessary, leading to freezing.
Symptoms: AC runs continuously, ice forming on refrigerant lines
What You Can Do:
Ensure the thermostat is set to auto (not “on”) so the fan cycles properly
Replace thermostat batteries and verify correct settings
How to Fix and Prevent AC Freezing Issues
If your AC is frozen, take these steps before calling a professional:
Turn off the system to allow the ice to melt.
Check and replace the air filter if it’s dirty.
Inspect vents and ducts for any airflow blockages.
Avoid running the AC until a technician can inspect it—running it while frozen can cause damage.
Call Big Air AC for Fast, Reliable Service
If your AC keeps freezing up, Big Air AC is here to help. We provide same-day service to diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable. Our expert team offers transparent pricing, detailed diagnostics with photos, and top-rated customer service.
📞 Call us today at (239) 738-1344 or visit BigAirAC.com to schedule an appointment!
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