Will a Frozen A/C Fix Itself?
Found ice on your air conditioner? It’s a common problem — and no, it won’t fix itself. Here’s what causes a frozen AC and what to do about it.
Why Does an AC Freeze Up?
The most common causes of a frozen AC are restricted airflow (usually a dirty filter) and low refrigerant. When the evaporator coil can’t absorb enough heat, the refrigerant becomes too cold and moisture in the air freezes on the coil.
What to Do When Your AC Is Frozen
- Turn the system to “fan only” mode (don’t turn off the air handler completely) to defrost the coil. This can take 1-3 hours.
- Check and replace the air filter.
- Once thawed, turn the AC back on and monitor it. If it freezes again, you likely have a refrigerant leak.
When to Call a Professional
If the AC refreezes after defrosting and a filter change, you have a refrigerant problem that requires a licensed HVAC technician. Refrigerant cannot legally be handled without EPA certification. Contact Air & Energy at 941-778-0773 for AC repair in Bradenton.