If your AC unit starts freezing up during the middle of a hot McDonough summer, you’re not alone. This problem can leave your home feeling just as warm inside as it is outside, and that’s frustrating when you’re counting on your unit to keep you cool. A frozen AC unit isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a warning sign that something needs attention. Whether your airflow is blocked or there’s an issue with refrigerant levels, ignoring the problem can cause more damage over time.
The good news is there are clear signs to watch for and steps you can take to manage the issue. Knowing how to handle a frozen AC unit can help reduce downtime until one of our technicians arrives. This article will walk you through the most common causes of freezing, the immediate actions to take, and steps you can follow to prevent it from happening again in your McDonough home.
Common Causes Of AC Freezing
Frozen AC units often come down to two main problems: restricted airflow and issues with refrigerant. When airflow is limited, the evaporator coil doesn’t receive the warm air it needs to keep things working correctly. As a result, ice can start to form around the coil and slowly take over the system. Low refrigerant levels can cause similar issues by making the coil too cold, which again leads to freezing.
Here are some reasons homeowners in McDonough might experience this:
– Dirty or clogged air filters restricting airflow
– Closed or blocked vents throughout the home
– Blower fan problems that reduce air movement
– Refrigerant leaks that lead to a drop in pressure
– Drainage issues that allow condensation to build up
Humidity also plays a role. In McDonough, summer air carries a lot of moisture. If your AC system isn’t removing enough of that moisture, excessive condensation may form and freeze on contact with cold surfaces inside the unit. One example would be a homeowner who set their thermostat low while closing vents in unused rooms. That move may seem smart for saving energy, but it can limit airflow to the system and result in coil freezing.
Immediate Steps To Take When Your AC Freezes
If your AC unit is frozen and not cooling your home like it should, it’s important to act quickly. Continued use of a frozen unit can cause long-term damage. Instead, follow this simple checklist to help reduce the risk of bigger problems:
1. Turn off the AC system completely. Letting it continue to run can strain the compressor and lead to more expensive repairs.
2. Switch the thermostat to fan mode. This allows warm air to pass over the coils and helps speed up the thawing process.
3. Check and replace dirty air filters. A clean filter can restore better airflow and prevent future ice buildup.
4. Make sure household vents are open. Closed or blocked vents cut off airflow, stressing the entire system.
5. Watch for water as the ice melts. Ice that melts too quickly may lead to water around your unit, which should be cleaned up to avoid water damage.
Let the unit thaw completely before turning it back on. This process can take several hours, depending on how much ice has built up. If the same issue happens again or if the unit will not cool properly afterward, that is a clear sign to contact one of our technicians for AC repair in McDonough. They have the right tools to inspect the system and get things running again safely.
Preventive Measures To Avoid Future Freezing
Once a frozen AC unit gets back up and running, the next step is making sure it doesn’t happen again. Homeowners in McDonough can take a few simple actions to keep their systems from freezing during peak summer temperatures. Most of these steps can be taken without opening any panels or touching the refrigerant.
For starters, consistent airflow is key to keeping the AC running steadily. Even small blockages can lead to reduced circulation and freezing coils. Pay attention to how the air feels from your vents. If it isn’t moving well, something might be interfering with the system.
To lower the chances of another freeze-up, follow these maintenance tips:
– Change your air filter every 1 to 3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies
– Check that all vents and registers remain open and unblocked by furniture
– Keep your thermostat set within recommended ranges during the hottest months to avoid overworking the system
– Clean debris or dirt from around your outdoor condenser unit to protect airflow
– Schedule routine inspections with our professionals to catch problems early
One overlooked habit is adjusting the thermostat too much throughout the day. For example, turning the AC way down before leaving for work may seem like a way to cool the house quickly when you return, but it can push the system harder than needed. That extra load can increase the chances of freezing if airflow or refrigerant isn’t balanced.
When To Call Our McDonough Technicians
If you’ve handled the basic steps, and your AC still freezes up or gives off weak airflow, that’s the time to bring in our technicians. Continued freezing is often a sign of a deeper issue inside the system, like a refrigerant leak or faulty part that’s harder to detect without the proper tools.
You should reach out if:
– Your AC freezes again shortly after thawing
– There’s a persistent water leak near the unit
– Airflow stays weak even with a clean filter and open vents
– Your home never reaches the set temperature
– Ice appears around the outside unit or lines
Our professionals have the skill to safely test refrigerant levels, inspect coils and parts, and pinpoint anything that’s causing the inconsistent performance. Trying to fix it without the right training can make things worse or even damage your equipment. Letting a trained technician take a look helps make sure the repair is done correctly the first time.
Keeping Cool With Less Hassle In McDonough
Quick action can prevent more problems when your AC starts to freeze up. Most cases start with airflow obstructions, worn-out parts, or imbalance in system pressure. Handling these early and keeping your AC clean and clear can go a long way in avoiding future issues. Regularly changing the air filter and being mindful of airflow makes a noticeable difference, especially during McDonough’s high-humidity summers.
It’s harder for any AC system to keep up during peak heat, and it’s easy to overlook small issues until something goes wrong. But taking a few preventive steps now helps protect your comfort later. If your AC shows signs of freezing more than once, it’s time to bring in expert help before the damage spreads or costs go up. Staying ahead of it keeps your home cool and your system running season after season.
Facing unexpected AC freezes in McDonough can be stressful, especially during the hottest months. One Call Heating & Cooling LLC understands that maintaining proper airflow and system balance is key to keeping your home comfortable. Rely on expert help through AC repair in McDonough to address any recurring issues before they become more costly. For a quick estimate or to schedule a service visit, please contact us today.
