One of the most common air conditioning service call issues relates to the unit being turned on, but no air coming out. This is usually a result of the coil inside the unit being frozen. Air conditioning freeze ups can happen for several reasons, but the most obvious is that there is a blockage somewhere in the system.
The AC Basics:
Air conditioning requires free flowing air to be passed through the components inside the air handler. The air is cooled by coils filled with refrigerant, which can then be blown out into your home. Unfortunately, it is not always this straightforward. When air has been cooled, it often produces condensation. In the same way that warm air hitting cold glass creates condensation, your air conditioner unit can generate up to 20 gallons of water each day. When the air isn’t moving properly through the system, this water can build up and become frozen on the coil. As more condensation builds up and freezes, your coil can become a solid block of ice, which needs to be addressed before the unit can resume delivering cooled air.
Correcting the Problem:
While it is likely that you will need professional HVAC assistance, there are several things you can do yourself to correct the problem. The first and most important step is to turn off the unit. Even an experienced technician will not be able to do anything until the ice has melted. Depending on the severity, this could take up to 24 hours. Once the coil has defrosted, the technician will be able to assess the unit and correct the problem.
Another important measure you can undertake is to regularly clean or change the air filters. The air filters not only improve your indoor air quality, but protect the inner components of the system from dust and debris. Unfortunately, when the filters become clogged with debris, it compromises airflow and places additional strain on your system. Most manufacturers recommend replacing filters every two to three months, to improve cooling performance, save energy and prolong the lifespan of your system.
You should also check to ensure that your system is not clogged with other debris. Outdoor units can often become blocked with vines, weeds, and other garden debris. When you are doing your gardening throughout the year, it is a good idea to check that the area around your outdoor unit is clear of any garden material. Inside the house, you will need to check that vents are unblocked and clear of any debris. When vents are blocked, there is increased pressure on the air conditioning system which can prevent consistent cooling. It is important that the vents haven’t been blocked by any furniture and that dust or debris has not accumulated. When you are vacuuming your home, it is a good idea to give the vents a quick check and clear any dust to prevent them from becoming blocked.
While an experienced HVAC technician will be able to correct issues such as a frozen coil, remember that prevention is better than cure. With some basic preventative maintenance, you can reduce the risk of your air conditioning breaking down and being faced with a hefty repair bill.