Having your HVAC freeze in the middle of Florida’s notoriously hot and humid summer can be stressful. However, there’s no reason to be concerned, as it’s quite a common occurrence. What’s more, there are several quick fixes that’ll have you enjoying cool air in no time.
Read on to learn what to do when your HVAC freezes in summer.
Why Has the HVAC System in Your Highland City Home Frozen?
Before trying to fix the problem, it’s vital to first understand why it happens. Whenever your HVAC system freezes, it’s probably the result of one of the issues below.
Low Refrigerant Levels
How do low refrigerant levels result in a frozen HVAC system? When the coolant leaves your system, usually because of a leak, it makes it hard for your HVAC to accurately regulate the air temperature. This causes it to freeze.
Dirty Air Filter
Dirty or clogged air filters often cause restricted airflow. Since you’re trying to keep your Highland City home cool in the summer, the air trapped in your unit is usually cold enough to freeze it.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
Just like your unit’s air filters, the evaporator coil can also accumulate dirt and dust. When this happens, it limits the amount of air passing over the coil, increasing the likelihood of the coil and your entire unit freezing.
Condensate Drain Blockage
As your HVAC system removes the heat from your home’s indoor air, moisture will build up. Fortunately, there’s a condensate drain line that directs this moisture away.
However, the condensate drain line can sometimes develop blockages that prevent the condensation from draining. This allows moisture to accumulate within your system, causing it to freeze.
How To Fix a Frozen HVAC System
Here’s what to do when your HVAC freezes in summer.
Turn the System Off
Some Highland City homeowners might try to thaw out the system by changing the thermostat settings. Instead, the first thing you should do is switch your system off.
Check the Filters
As you’ve seen, one of the common factors that causes your HVAC system to freeze is a buildup of dirt and dust on the air filters. Once you’ve switched off your unit, inspect the air filters to ensure they aren’t restricting airflow. If you find the filters to be too dirty, replace them immediately.
Inspect the Condensate Drain Line
Next, inspect your system’s condensate drain line for any clogs. You can try to dislodge the clogs you find using a wet/dry vacuum.
Check the Refrigerant Levels
Besides a buildup of dirt and dust, low refrigerant levels are another common reason for ice building up in your HVAC system. After sorting out your system’s filters and drain line, inspect its refrigerant levels to ensure there are no leaks.
Call a Professional
Knowing what to do when your HVAC freezes in summer seems easy. However, while you can do some of these quick fixes on your own, it’s still a good idea to get professional HVAC services in Highland City, FL.
Having a certified technician inspect your HVAC system helps you rest easy knowing that your unit won’t freeze again anytime soon. The technician will give your system a detailed assessment, making short work of the repairs you might be unable to handle on your own.
For instance, if they find a leak, they’ll not only plug it but also refill the refrigerant. They also possess the necessary tools and expertise to safely and effectively clean your system’s internal components.
Enjoy Dependable HVAC Services From Highland City’s Trusted Cooling Pros
Having your HVAC freeze in summer is a tell-tale sign you need professional HVAC services. Expect nothing less from the experts at Egberts Electric and Air Conditioning. Talk to us today for the dependable HVAC solutions you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Would you like to know more about what to do when your HVAC freezes in summer? Read on below.
Will Increasing the Temperature Fix the Problem?
No, raising the temperature will not fix the problem. It requires professional attention, not DIY hacks.
Can I Still Use My Frozen HVAC System?
No, it’s never wise to continue using a frozen HVAC system. Doing so can cause considerable damage, especially to the compressor.
Can I Prevent My System From Freezing?
Yes, you can prevent your HVAC system from freezing by regularly scheduling professional maintenance. This is the best way to catch minor issues early before they develop into something bigger.