Why do condensers ice up

Typically, we recommend you check your filter monthly. Change it as needed. For most folks, this is one to every three months. Filter changes vary based on factors, such as:. As part of a seasonal tune up, a professional HVAC contractor performs a comprehensive inspection. This includes checking coolant levels and charging if necessary. Think you might have a coolant leak? There are a couple of signs. For example, does your AC blow hot air? Do you hear a hissing?

Avoid handling coolant chemicals, because they can be toxic. Leave it to the professionals if possible. Obstructed airflow is a major reason heating and cooling systems malfunction or function inefficiently. Similar to a clogged filter, blocked vent returns and registers prevent adequate airflow.

This causes your system to work harder without a way to release the cooled or heated air. Are vents and registers clear from any obstructions? Your problem may be poorly designed or installed ductwork. In some cases, the ductwork is installed well but the wrong size for your house or the capacity.

Our trained professionals inspect your ductwork and offer redesign solutions, if necessary. If there is a clog, like nesting material or other signs of pests, we clear obstructions blocking proper airflow. The condensate lines drain excess moisture from your HVAC system. Dirty coils can cause freezing because the layer of dirt on top of the coils can prevent them from absorbing the water fast enough. Sometimes your blower fan can break, or become damaged during normal operation.

When your blower fan is on the fritz, that significantly changes the airflow inside of your air handler. Too much condensation will build up on the coils, and the water droplets will not evaporate or drain properly.

Without the hot air moving over the proper parts, a broken blower fan can also cause a refrigerant line to freeze too. If your refrigerant line is frozen, be careful! The freeze can easily back up all the way to your condenser unit outside, causing problems. If you catch it in the early enough stages, you may be able to handle an AC freezing issue yourself.

But if the freeze up is the result of dirty coils, or your system has water damage you can call us or schedule an appointment online. Our team of experienced technicians provides quick, efficient repairs when your AC is frozen.

Schedule Service Online Orlando or Tampa. Toggle navigation. Search for:. Dirty air filters are common culprits of poor airflow, but low-hanging curtains also cause problems, as do dirty coils and broken fans within the system. A lack of refrigerant is another possible issue. You may need to stop refrigerant from leaking to get your system back to normal.

Changing the air handler filter or return air filter may fix the problem. Removing any obstruction to airflow curtains, blinds, etc. Other measures should be left for professionals to handle. HVAC technicians will clean coils, replace dirty filters, repair any broken fans and clear vents to make sure the air conditioner is getting the right type of airflow in and out of the unit.

In some cases, heating and cooling technicians will find refrigerant leaking or running on empty. They will fix the leak and restore refrigerant levels to normal. Whenever there is a mechanical problem with HVAC equipment, the system must work harder to deliver less than peak performance. This process wastes energy while putting added stress on the equipment.