What Does Ice on My Air Conditioner Mean?

Ice on your air conditioner may seem alarming, but it’s a fairly common problem. There are many minor issues that can cause part of your AC system to become too cool and form ice. If you notice ice on the air conditioner at your Damascus, Maryland, home, turn off the system immediately. A clogged air filter, a dirty coil or a refrigerant leak could be at the root of your iced over AC system.

Your Air Filter Has Clogged

Changing your air filter is the first thing you should do when you notice ice on your air conditioner. If the air filter has clogged, the system won’t get enough airflow to properly cool your home. Without that supply of warm air blowing over the evaporator coils, you’ll experience a buildup of ice. You should aim to change your AC system’s air filter at least once every three months or sooner if you can see dust on it. As a result, your AC system will operate more efficiently.

The Evaporator Coil is Dirty

The evaporator coil is responsible for chilling the air in your home as it’s blown over the surface of these refrigerant-filled tubes. If the coil contains a lot of dust and dirt on it, the air won’t be able to deposit heat and cool down. Regular maintenance will help you avoid this problem. If your air conditioner is already frozen, you’ll need to wait for the ice to thaw and let our service technicians thoroughly clean the coils.

There’s a Refrigerant Leak

Low refrigerant is a common cause of ice on your air conditioner. If your system doesn’t have enough refrigerant circulating through the coils, it may become overcooled and form ice. Refrigerant isn’t naturally depleted, so a low level means that you have a leak somewhere in your system. Our service technicians can seal the leak and recharge your refrigerant.

If you have ice on your AC system, our service technicians can provide a quick diagnosis and repair. Contact Eric Smock Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. at (301) 945-7220 to make your appointment.

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