my air conditioning coils keep freezing up what is causing this?

Question

I have put a new filter in and am stumped why it is freezing up

Answer 1

Two big reasons are lack of refrigerant and a plugged evaporator coil. Your question doesn't identify whether this is a window unit or a split system for your home, so we''ll look at both.

If it is a window unit, remove the plastic cover and the filter media, and look at the fins of the radiator-like structure behind the filter. If it is plugged with mold or debris, the air flow will be greatly reduced. The reason this causes the unit to freeze is that it requires a lot of warm air flowing past the cool refrigerant coils
to keep them from freezing. You can purchase coil cleaner in a quart bottel at your local hardware store. Squirt it on generously and let it sit until the stuff starts bubbling out, then rinse thoroughly. You may have to do this more than once. Be sure to clean out the pan area as well to prevent obstructions to the drain line.

If it is a split system, look for obvious air flow problems first, such as a collapsed return or supply duct . If your air handler sits on a stand and draws return directly from the home through a filter rack, you can open the filter rack and look under the evaporator coil with a flashlight. If it is plugged with mold and/or debris, this is not a homeowner maintenence item, and requires a service call. Likewise, if you can't see the coil, this will have to be diagnosed by a service tech.

It is always reasonable to consider the purchase of new equipment before spending a lot on repairs if your system is nearing the end of its' life cycle. A split system lasts on an average 12-15 years, with the last years of operation featuring
inefficiant operation.

Good luck with your a/c. I hope this information helps.

Answer 2

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RE:
my air conditioning coils keep freezing up what is causing this?
I have put a new filter in and am stumped why it is freezing up

Answer 3

If the filter is clean, think about the outdoor temp. Window air conditioners do not have a variable metering device. This means if the outside temp drops low enough your unit won't be able to maintain evaporator temps above freezing. Once it gets below 60 degrees outside this can begin to happen.

Answer 4

I've seen this happen when people run it too cold for too long. Do check your coil though, that's also a common problem.

Answer 5

turn down the freezstat, if that doesnt, work take it outta the window, take it to a spray clean car wash,( preferably in a pickup truck bed) set othe spray control on rinse,, and spray it inside and out to clean it ( especially the veins inbetween the coils,, let it dry ( a coupla hrs in the sun should do the trick,, you dont want an electrical short out) replace and try it,,,,,,

Answer 6

You need to clean the condensing unit..if it's central air conditioning that will be attached to the furnace

Answer 7

I had the same problem. I called in the service guy, and it turned out we were low on coolant. I don't think you can add coolant yourself, so call a plumber or the gas company.

Answer 8

Low freon charge.