One of the most important parts of your AC system is the evaporator coil. Its job is to pull heat out of the air using refrigerant that is sent from the compressor. When the evaporator coil runs into a problem such as developing a layer of ice around it, your system loses its ability to cool the air. You might see warning signs of trouble like an air conditioner that is running but not cooling the air or a system that is short cycling.
When your system has to work to overcome a problem like frozen evaporator coils, its ability to cool is reduced, your energy bills increase, and your system wears out quickly.
If you notice that your air conditioner has ice on the evaporator coil, then it means you need a professional air conditioning repair in Hazelhurst, MS.
Why an Icy Evaporator Coil is Bad
The evaporator coil is essential for your AC to work properly. It absorbs heat in your home and takes it out of circulation in conjunction with the condenser coil. The result is cool air.
In a properly working AC system, the evaporator coil should be cold but not freezing. The refrigerant in the coil should be about 40° to pull heat from the air efficiently.
Any ice buildup in an AC is a signal that there’s a problem in the system. It means that something is reducing the amount of heat the refrigerant can pull out of the air in your home.
If your evaporator coil is freezing, your system will have to work harder to move air through the coil and will eventually overheat from the effort. Your AC will run constantly short cycle as a result of the frozen coil, overstressing the system, wearing it down, and increasing your energy bills.
What Causes Ice on the Evaporator Coil?
There are several possible causes of an icy evaporator coil. Four of the most common causes include:
- Restricted airflow – Proper airflow is essential to keep the coils at the right temperature. There are many potential causes of restricted airflow, including a dirty air filter or blocked air ducts. Without enough warm air to maintain the proper temperature in the coil, the temperature will drop.
- Dirty coils – Dirt and grime can build up on the coils themselves, preventing the refrigerant in the coils from absorbing heat. Efficient heat exchange is necessary for cooling.
- Refrigerant leak – The refrigerant level must also be maintained at the proper operating level. A refrigerant leak drops the pressure in the coil, which also drops the heat absorption rate.
- Drain clogs – If the condensate drain pan and lines become clogged, moisture will build up on the coils and can freeze.
The Best Possible Solution
A frozen air conditioner only sounds like a good idea. In reality, it means your AC isn’t working efficiently and may be on its way to a breakdown. The best possible solution is to call our team of expert technicians to assess the problem and fix it before it becomes a more severe problem.
Contact AirSouth today to get your AC thawed and repaired so you can enjoy a cool house again.
