The hotter the summer weather, the more likely your air conditioner will freeze, causing the temperature in your home to rise. This doesn’t seem possible. How can an air-conditioning unit create a block of ice when the temperature outside is steadily in the 90s? Unfortunately, this problem is more common than you think.

Normally, when liquids convert to gas, it becomes warmer. However, air conditioners use chemical compounds known as refrigerants, like Freon, that convert and maintain lower temperatures. This process takes place continuously inside a system of coils in your air conditioner, turning your room temperature colder as the air passes over these chilly coils and then shoots back into your house.

Problems occur when this constant airflow slows or the gas leaks out of the coils somewhere in the unit. When this happens, the coils begin to freeze. The forming ice becomes a type of insulator, creating more ice, which eventually takes over the entire unit.

So what should you do?

You should immediately turn off your compressor. If the compressor is still on, there is no chance of the unit defrosting, even in the hot summer heat. Additionally, if the compressor continues to run, it can actually ruin the unit all together. When the ice melts, be sure to prepare a proper drainage system. Many times the units themselves will have a run-off panel underneath, but if not then you should be ready with a method to soak up the extra water. The last step is to call a professional. Restrictions to the airflow in a system can happen from a number of reasons including poorly designed ductwork or dirty coils. The gas leak, when found, can be easily fixed and filled. The same is true for any catches in the system’s design. A professional will be able to identify your problem and get started fixing your system right away to get your home back to the comfortable temperature you enjoy.

However, the most reliable way to fix this problem is to avoid it completely. Schedule regular maintenance and service inspections for the tune-ups you need. Give ARS a call today.