Why Is There Ice on My AC System in Augusta, GA?

Ice that forms on your air conditioner can lead to damage and expensive repairs if left unattended. It can also cause the AC system to work harder and use more energy. Let’s explore three of the most common reasons ice is forming on your AC system in Augusta, GA, and how to avoid this problem.

Your Refrigerant Is Low

As air passes over your AC system’s evaporator coil, condensation forms. This is because the air conditioner is removing moisture from your Augusta, GA, home.

The moisture that the AC system collects travels to the drip pan. If the refrigerant level is too low to help with this, ice will form.

Insufficient refrigerant is usually due to a leak. A service technician can find the leak and repair the damaged portion of the refrigerant line. If repairs do not resolve the issue, the system may fail completely and require a new AC system installation.

Faulty Wiring

Ice can form if your compressor continues to run long after the fan stops circulating the air. If you notice that your AC system runs for quite a while after your home reaches your desired temperature, it could be developing an ice problem. This situation can indicate faulty wiring or the need for a new thermostat.

Dirty Evaporator Coils or Air Filter

If your air filter is dirty, it’ll stop air from flowing over the evaporator coils properly. If the airflow decreases, ice will form. Changing your AC system’s air filter regularly helps prevent this problem.

Dirty evaporator coils can also cause ice to form. Once dirt and debris build up on these coils, they can freeze. Scheduling regular AC maintenance will ensure that your evaporator coil is clean; this can help keep ice from forming.

If you see ice on your AC system, turn it off immediately. Don’t try to fix the problem yourself. Instead, call Plunkett Heating & Air for your AC repair needs.

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