An HVAC freezing up in summer is a unit that needs prompt attention. While air conditioners are supposed to produce cold air, ice formation is definitely not part of this process. No component in a properly functioning central AC should generate temperatures that drop below freezing.
Most everything about an HVAC freezing up in summer is bad news:
First, a frozen air conditioner will not produce cool comfort anymore. Often, the unit may shut down entirely. Because freeze-ups often happen when outdoor temperatures are excessively high, this can mean very uncomfortable living conditions until the problem is resolved.
Ice forming inside indoor evaporator coil passages gradually obstructs system airflow. This, in turn, causes the system to run longer cycles. As airflow becomes increasingly obstructed, the system runs nearly nonstop. By that time, severe, permanent damage to the compressor — the most costly component in a typical central AC — may have occurred.
What Causes AC Freeze-Ups?
Low system airflow. When airflow through the indoor evaporator coil drops below specifications, the temperature of refrigerant circulating through the coil may plunge below freezing. Condensation naturally forming on the coil then freezes, eventually obstructing the coil. The best insurance to support optimum HVAC airflow is replacing the system air filter every month all summer long. This is an effective, affordable measure to help avoid an HVAC freezing up in summer.
Refrigerant leaks. When the AC refrigerant charge drops too low, coil icing is a common early symptom. Air conditioners don’t consume refrigerant, so if the amount circulating through the system is insufficient, that usually indicates a leak somewhere. A qualified HVAC technician has the equipment to track down and repair these small refrigerant leaks. Then, the system's refrigerant charge can be restored to proper specifications.
If your HVAC freezing up in summer threatens your indoor comfort, ask the cooling professionals at Air Assurance about qualified HVAC service to resolve the problem.