A centralized air conditioning system is often an advantage for larger homes with ample electrical capacity to handle it. While the system is supposed to provide the cooling loads for the home, what if the component units themselves are freezing up? In his article for SFGate, Robert Korpella said that freezing is a distinct possibility when the coils are wrapped in ice.
Eden Prairie, MN residents who are emerging from a deep winter may need every advantage as the white deep freeze gives way to spring green. When the temperature in Eden Prairie gets too warm even as summer’s still far away, the last thing any homeowner wants to bear is (activating) a central air conditioner that couldn’t generate the proper cooling loads. Dealing with the icing problem requires the support of Eden Prairie air conditioning repair specialists like the crew at Air Quality Services (AQS).
Origins
Many HVAC experts agree that the icing on a central air conditioning unit begins when the temperature on the condenser drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or outside air temps go under 60°F. At this point, Korpella says the ice comes together from the humidity the way you see on freezer sections of refrigerators. It is often not advised to manually hack off the ice lest you puncture the coils in the process.
Have your Edina, MN air conditioning repair technician check the level of cooling fluid in the condenser as well. A low amount can indicate a leak somewhere, which the technician can probe, and carry out the necessary repairs or fixes, including refilling the coolant. If the coil assembly must be replaced, have the contractor provide you with a detailed quote right away.
Simple Solutions
Sometimes, the ice buildup may not be primarily attributed to a coil leak; other sections of the HVAC system, such as the airways, can be causing it. Korpella suggests reviewing all supply registers if they are open, as well as replacing congested filters and the coil assembly’s cooling fins.
Thermostatic Culprit
There’s the possibility that the thermostat may have a role in the icing. A few HVAC specialists claim that icing problems may ensue if you programmed the temperature too low for nighttime usage. On the other hand, if you successfully let the frozen coils thaw, the central air must shut down when room temperatures reach the programmed setting. Your AC technician should recheck the power connections to ensure this takes place.
A frozen AC system is no fun just when you need the cooling load to enjoy a season of warmer days ahead. Call for help from a company like AQS soon.
(Source: Coils Frost Up When Running the Central Air, SFGate.com)