Air conditioners do a great job of helping Port Arthur TX families beat the summer heat, but even the best air conditioners are vulnerable to some maintenance issues. One of the most common such problems we at Thermacon Service Company see is ice formation on air conditioning coils. If your air conditioner ices up, look for a few common issues that could be the cause of the problem. Whether your air conditioner needs a simple fix or a more significant repair, we can help you resolve this problem quickly and stay cool throughout the hot months.
Check the Filter
One of the most common causes of ice buildup on any air conditioner is a dirty air filter. Excessive amounts of dust and debris on the filter can limit airflow and prevent cold air from leaving the machine. As the cold air accumulates inside the air conditioner, the internal temperature drops, allowing ice to form on the coils.
If your air conditioner ices up, check the filter to see if it needs to be cleaned or changed. In general, reusable filters should be cleaned on a monthly basis; remember to let the filter air dry completely before putting it back inside the air conditioner. Likewise, disposable filters should be replaced every month. Instead of buying the cheapest available filters from your local hardware store, check with an authorized dealer for filters that fit your machine properly.
Outdoor Temperature
Running an air conditioner when the outdoor air is relatively cool is another common cause of icing up. Most frequently, this happens overnight as the air cools; if your air conditioner’s coils are covered in ice in the morning, try shutting the machine off in the evening and turning it back on the next day. Improved control equipment can shut the machine off automatically when the outdoor temperature drops, which saves money in addition to preventing the air conditioner from freezing up.
Refrigerant Level
Your air conditioner uses refrigerant to transfer heat out of your home and keep the indoor temperature at a comfortable level; however, during normal operation, the Freon is never actually used up. Consult your owner’s manual to find the normal refrigerant level and check your air conditioner’s gauge to confirm that it is in that recommended range. Low Freon levels are likely evidence of a refrigerant leak, which can cause ice buildup and many other problems. Refrigerant leaks require professional attention to repair.
At Thermacon Service Company, we offer air conditioner maintenance and repair services throughout the Port Arthur TX area. If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, or if you are not sure why ice is forming on the coils, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our air conditioning repair experts will come promptly, identify the issue and do what it takes to keep your family cool no matter how hot the weather gets.
