What happens when you wake up one day and find out that your AC’s coils are frozen? It can be stressful because it’s a sign that your air conditioner isn’t functioning correctly and requires your attention. Most people immediately call for air conditioning services in San Marcos, TX, to fix this, but that can sometimes cost a hefty amount of money.
The good news is that in many cases, you can troubleshoot the issue yourself before calling a professional. Let us guide you step by step!
Steps To Fix A Frozen AC Coil Before Calling Air Conditioning Services In San Marcos, TX
There are several reasons behind a frozen AC coil. It could be a lack of airflow (dirty filters, blocked ducts) or low refrigerant levels. Typically, an expert is called to fix this issue, but with the following steps, you can do it too. How? Let us tell you in detail!
Step 1: Defrost the Unit
The first thing to do when you discover the AC freezing up is to let the ice melt.
- Turn off the AC: Set your thermostat to “Off.” This stops the system from making the problem worse.
- Switch the fan to “On”: The indoor fan will keep blowing warm air across the frozen coil, which speeds up defrosting.
- Be Patient: Depending on how much ice has built up, it may take several hours or up to a full day for all of the ice to melt completely.
During this time, keep towels or a bucket handy in case melting water drips from the air handler.
Step 2: Improve Airflow
A lack of airflow is the top reason for a frozen AC coil. Once the ice has melted, check these areas:
- Replace The Air Filter: A dirty filter blocks air and is often the main culprit. Replacing it with a clean filter is quick and inexpensive. Try to change filters every 1–3 months, especially during San Marcos summers when AC use is heavy.
- Check for blockages: Walk through your home and make sure no supply vents are closed or blocked by rugs, furniture, or drapes. Your AC needs clear airflow in every room.
- Inspect the evaporator coil: If you can access the coil inside your air handler, look for dust or debris. A light layer of dirt can slow airflow and cooling. If you see buildup, clean it gently with a soft brush or contact a technician for deep cleaning.
Restoring airflow often solves the issue and keeps your coil from freezing again.
Step 3: Look for Underlying Issues
If your AC coil continues freezing even after an air filter change and improved airflow, the problem may be deeper. Here are the most common causes:
- Low refrigerant levels: If refrigerant is leaking, the coil becomes too cold. This usually requires professional leak detection and recharging.
- Faulty blower motor: If the blower is weak or not working correctly, not enough air moves across the coil.
- Dirty evaporator coil: A heavily clogged coil can choke airflow and freeze again.
- Refrigerant line restriction: Blockages in the refrigerant line, filter dryer, or expansion valve can cause freezing.
All these issues require specialized tools and repairs from an HVAC professional. So it is advised to consult a reliable HVAC expert in San Marcos.
When to Call a Professional in San Marcos?
You can’t always fix frozen AC coils yourself. It’s time to call an HVAC technician if:
- The coil freezes again shortly after you’ve defrosted and replaced the air filter.
- You notice weak airflow even after vents and filters are clear.
- You suspect a refrigerant leak.
- You hear strange noises from the blower motor or see water leaking around the indoor unit.
A professional can measure refrigerant levels, test the blower motor, and clean or repair the evaporator coil safely. This prevents repeated breakdowns and saves you the cost of replacing an AC compressor or other underlying issues.
How To Prevent a Frozen AC Coil In San Marcos, TX?
Preventing frozen coils is easier than dealing with them. Here are simple habits to keep your AC healthy:
- Replace air filters regularly.
- Schedule seasonal maintenance with a local HVAC company.
- Keep vents open and unblocked.
- Ensure your outdoor unit is clear of dirt, grass, or leaves.
- Call for professional inspection if you notice cooling problems early.
These steps not only reduce the risk of frozen coils but also extend the life of your system.
Conclusion
A frozen coil doesn’t always mean expensive repairs. Many times, it’s caused by restricted airflow from a dirty filter or blocked vents. With a simple air filter change and good maintenance habits, you can keep your system running smoothly.
If the problem keeps coming back, don’t wait. Contact reliable air conditioning services in San Marcos, TX, to get a proper diagnosis and repair. They can handle refrigerant, blower, or coil problems safely, so your home stays cool and comfortable all year long.
When we speak of a reliable HVAC company, Woods Comfort System will always grab your attention. With our HVAC and plumbing company, you can get 60-plus years of experience with attention to detail, getting your AC coils back to normal in no time. From fixing AC coils to installing a new unit to running a regular inspection, our every service reflects our commitment to excellence.
Call us at (512) 883-4440 or book Woods Comfort Systems online and receive a team that believes in fixing your AC without breaking the bank!
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my AC coil is frozen?
Turn off your AC, set the fan to “On,” and allow the ice to melt completely. Once defrosted, replace the filter and check that airflow is not blocked.
How long does it take for a frozen evaporator coil to thaw?
A frozen evaporator coil can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to thaw, depending on how much ice has built up.
How much does it cost to repair a frozen evaporator coil?
The cost depends on the cause. A simple air filter change is inexpensive, while refrigerant leaks or motor repairs require professional air conditioning services in San Marcos, TX.
What is the first step in troubleshooting an AC freezing up?
Always start by defrosting the system and changing the air filter. This rules out restricted airflow, the most common reason for the AC freezing up.
Can I keep running my AC while the coil is frozen?
No, running your AC with a frozen coil can damage the compressor. Turn it off until the ice melts and the problem is resolved.
