Even when it’s blazingly hot, your evaporator coil can freeze up on you, causing your AC unit to work harder, perform worse, use more energy, and even break down due to additional stress on the compressor.
Although calling in a pro is always advisable, here are a few things you might be able to do to remedy the situation on your own.
Clean the Evaporator Coils
Dirty evaporator coils can reduce their ability to absorb heat. When unfroze, a simple wipe down with a cloth might be all that’s needed. Depending on where you live and where your unit resides, build-up may be frequent. Generally speaking, a routine annual or bi-annual inspection by a pro can prevent this from happening in the first place.
Improve Airflow
Any obstruction to airflow from the blower can result in a freezing coil. This can be due to a poorly fitted filter, a dirty filter, damaged ductwork, blocked return grills or vents, a faulty blower motor and more. As a DIY step, you can clean the area around the coils, and replace the filter. If that fails, and the vents are unobstructed, it’s time to call an HVAC repair service.
Issues with Drainage
Drainage issues aren’t uncommon, especially when the weather is overly humid. When humidity is removed, condensation builds up. If your drainpipe is clogged with debris (perhaps from that last storm), this can cause water to back up and freeze on your coils. As a DIY solution, consider trying to clear the drain with a wet/dry vac. If that doesn’t work, give us a call.