If your air conditioner is working but not cooling, it could be because the evaporator coils are frozen. This is a common issue that can affect your AC's performance.

In this article, we’ll explain why evaporator coils freeze, how to fix the problem, and how to prevent it from happening again.

What Causes Evaporator Coils To Freeze Up? How To Fix Them?

Low Refrigerant Levels

One common cause of frozen evaporator coils is low refrigerant levels. When the refrigerant in your AC system runs low, the pressure inside the evaporator coils drops, causing the coils to become too cold and freeze up.

This can reduce the cooling efficiency of your air conditioner and, if left unaddressed, can lead to further damage.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to have a professional check the refrigerant levels and recharge the system if necessary.

Dirty Air Filters

Another common culprit is dirty or clogged air filters. When air filters are blocked with dust and debris, airflow to the evaporator coils is restricted.

This leads to the coils becoming too cold, eventually freezing over. Not only does this reduce the AC’s ability to cool effectively, but it also puts strain on the system.

The solution here is simple: regularly clean or replace the air filters to ensure proper airflow.

Blocked Vents or Ductwork

If your air vents or ductwork are blocked or clogged, airflow to the evaporator coils is impeded. This restriction in airflow can cause the temperature of the coils to drop below freezing, leading to ice buildup.

The fix is to check for any blockages in the vents or ducts and clear them. Ensure that furniture, curtains, or other objects aren't obstructing the airflow.

Thermostat Problems

A malfunctioning thermostat can also cause your evaporator coils to freeze. If the thermostat is reading the temperature incorrectly, it can make the air conditioner run longer than needed, causing the coils to get too cold.

In this case, the thermostat may need recalibration or repair. You can either adjust the thermostat settings or have it replaced if it's not working correctly.

Faulty Blower Fan

The blower fan in your AC system is responsible for circulating air across the evaporator coils. If the fan is not working properly, air cannot flow through the system as it should, causing the coils to freeze.

The solution here is to inspect the fan and ensure it is operating correctly. If it’s malfunctioning, it may need repair or replacement.

How To Thaw A Frozen Evaporator Coil?

To thaw a frozen evaporator coil, please follow these steps:

1. Turn Off Your AC

The first step when you discover that your evaporator coils are frozen is to turn off your air conditioner. Running the AC with frozen coils can cause further damage, especially to the compressor.

2. Allow the Coils to Thaw Naturally

Once the AC is turned off, the next step is to let the coils thaw. This may take several hours. If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air but running, make sure to turn it off and let the ice melt before using it again.

If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing a fan nearby to circulate air or gently using a hairdryer (on the lowest heat setting) to warm the frozen coils.

3. Address the Underlying Issue

Once the coils have thawed, refer back to the causes mentioned earlier to resolve the issue. For example, check and replace your air filter if it’s clogged, inspect the blower fan for proper operation, etc.

If you're unsure or the problem persists, it's always a good idea to reach out to a professional for assistance

How Do I Keep My Ac Coils From Freezing?

To prevent your AC coils from freezing and ensure your system runs efficiently, follow these simple air conditioner maintenance steps:

Replace or Clean Air Filters

• Turn off your AC.

• Remove the air filter from the unit.

• If it’s disposable, replace it with a new one. If it’s reusable, clean it with water and mild detergent, then let it dry completely before re-inserting.

Clean the Coils

• Turn off your AC and power it down.

• Use a soft brush or coil cleaner to clean the evaporator coil and remove dirt from the evaporator and condenser coils.

• For tough dirt, spray a gentle coil cleaner on the coils and let it sit for the recommended time before rinsing it off with water.

• If you're unsure about cleaning, call a professional for deep cleaning.

Clear the Air Vents and Ducts

• Check all air vents for blockages and remove any obstructions such as furniture, curtains, or debris.

• Inspect the ductwork (if accessible) for any signs of blockages or leaks.

• Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove dirt from the vents and ducts.

Check Refrigerant Levels

• Only a professional can check and refill refrigerant. Schedule an annual check-up with an HVAC technician to ensure refrigerant levels are correct.

Inspect the Blower Fan

• Turn off the AC and inspect the blower fan for any visible issues.

• Ensure it spins freely. If you notice any odd noises or resistance, contact a professional to service the fan.

Schedule Professional Inspections

• Once or twice a year, hire a licensed HVAC technician to perform a thorough inspection of your AC system. They will check for potential issues that may affect performance, including refrigerant levels, mechanical problems, and electrical components.

Frozen Evaporator Coil Repair Cost

If your evaporator coil is broken and need repaired, it would cost you $150 to $1000 on average. Here's the cost breakdown:

Cleaning or Replacing Air Filters

If the issue is simply a dirty air filter causing the freeze, you may only need to replace or clean the filter, which usually costs around $20 to $100.

Refrigerant Recharge

If low refrigerant levels are the cause of freezing, you may need a refrigerant recharge. This typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on the type of refrigerant and the amount needed.

Fan or Coil Repair

If the fan motor is malfunctioning or the coils are damaged, repair costs can increase. Fan repairs or replacement can range from $200 to $600, while coil repairs or replacement can cost between $400 and $1,000.

Get Expert AC Solutions from Della

If you're experiencing issues like frozen evaporator coils or simply want to ensure your AC is working at its best, Della is here to help.

We offer top-quality air conditioners, including mini split AC systems and expert advice to keep your home cool and your system running smoothly.

With our reliable products and professional services, you can avoid common problems and enjoy efficient cooling year-round.

Don't miss out on our air conditioner sale—contact Della today for the best deals and professional guidance to keep your home comfortable.

FAQ about Evaporator Coil Freezing Up

What happens when the evaporator coil freezes?

When the evaporator coil freezes, the air conditioner can't do its job properly. The coil is supposed to absorb heat from the air, but when it's covered in ice, it can't do that.

As a result, your AC will stop cooling effectively and may even stop working completely. If you don't fix it, the ice can damage other parts of the AC, causing even bigger problems.

Will low refrigerants or freon cause an evaporator to ice up?

Yes, if your AC is low on refrigerant (the cooling gas), the evaporator coil can freeze. Refrigerant helps the AC absorb heat from inside your house.

When there's not enough refrigerant, the coil gets too cold, and ice starts to build up. This is why low refrigerant can cause your AC to freeze up.

Can I run my AC with frozen coils?

No, running your AC with frozen coils can cause damage to the compressor and other components. It's important to turn off the system immediately and allow the coils to thaw before restarting the unit.