The ice covering your air conditioner can be quite thick, even when it’s sweltering outside. You may be surprised to learn that a frozen air conditioner is a rather typical occurrence, and there are several possible causes. When it comes to keeping your air conditioner running at peak efficiency, it’s best to keep ice off of it.
Here’s a look at how ice accumulation occurs, some common indicators to be on the lookout for and how to get rid of and prevent ice buildup from an air conditioning repair specialist.
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Snow and ice buildup. When your unit is surrounded by snow and ice, it’s possible that your system will freeze and shut down. As a result, your home’s heating system will turn off and your water pipes could be damaged.
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Blocking the exhaust. Snow can interfere with your furnace’s output, which can result in your unit malfunctioning, or worse, releasing hazardous gases like carbon monoxide into your house. Most furnaces have a safety switch that will shut them down if there’s an obstruction.
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Damage to your outdoor unit. Icicles that build up on top of your outdoor HVAC unit can fall and damage your system. This damage can be quite severe, necessitating a costly replacement.
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Ventilation blockage and leakage. A buildup of snow and ice can obstruct airflow, causing your heating system to malfunction. Furthermore, this buildup can cause your pipes to leak and malfunction.
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Corrosion and rust buildup. Water from melting snow can leak into your system, where it will then freeze and expand, causing corrosion that results in rust building up throughout it.
How to Prevent Ice Buildup
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Have your air conditioner’s refrigerant charge checked on a regular basis by a professional, and keep an eye out for any refrigerant leaks.
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Make sure your evaporator and condenser coils are clean and cleared of any dirt, dust or debris that could obstruct airflow. You can hire a professional to clean your coils if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.
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Ensure that your air filter is changed on a regular basis. A clogged filter can produce airflow obstructions, which could lead to ice formation.
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Make sure that no furniture, drapes or rugs are blocking the return air intake register.
Our top-rated specialists at Bill Reynolds Heating & Air Conditioning will take the stress out of the process and find a solution that meets your needs and works with your budget. We also provide furnace installation, indoor air quality testing, duct cleaning and sealing and duct maintenance and repair services.
Give us a call at (440) 298-4698 or fill out our contact form to request a quote or schedule a service appointment.
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