Central residential HVAC systems include evaporator coils that are filled with refrigerant vapor. The coil absorbs heat from the air as it travels through the system, keeping your home comfortable. While the refrigerant is usually kept around 40 degrees, it can get too cold and freeze the evaporator coil, which prevents the AC from working properly. Here's what you need to know about identifying and addressing this issue. 

Signs of a Frozen Coil

Often the evaporator coil will experience problems when it doesn't receive enough warm airflow, causing it to freeze the condensate it produces. As a result, it will not make the desired cool air. You may feel warm air or no air at all from the vents, accompanied by hissing or banging noises. 

Walk out to the condenser. Look for ice around the outdoor refrigerant line, which is a hose connected to the back of the unit. Examine the air handler, which is typically beneath the vent, for moisture or condensation. Check the condensate drain pan, which may be full or overflowing if the drainpipe is clogged. 

What to Do

To ensure proper airflow, check your air filter and replace it if it's dirty. Then, turn off the air conditioner and restart it on the “fan only” setting. Do this for 24 hours. This will circulate warm air through the system without activating the refrigerant cycle so that, hopefully, the unit becomes operational again. If this does not solve the issue, call a residential HVAC professional. They may need to unclog the drainpipes, clean the dirty evaporator coil, or patch a refrigerant leak.

To reduce the chances of the issue recurring, change your HVAC filter regularly, usually every one to three months, and keep plant life at least two feet away from the condenser unit.

Once you have turned off your air conditioning, call the heating & cooling team at The Furnace Man Heating & Cooling, LLC in Beavercreek, OH. This locally owned and operated residential HVAC contractor has built a reputation for efficient and reliable service. They'll quickly determine what caused your coils to freeze and conduct the appropriate AC repairs to ensure it doesn't happen again. Learn more about their services online. Call (937) 427-4105 for a free quote on maintenance or a new, more efficient HVAC system.