New River, AZ, is one of the hottest places in the country. From May through September, the average high stays above 100°F. So, if you found out your AC coils froze, you probably thought, “How does anything freeze in this kind of heat?”
In this post, we’ll answer the question, “Why does my AC coil freeze up?” and explain why homeowners rely on Mountainside Air for dependable AC services in New River, AZ.
Why Frozen Coils Are a Serious Problem in New River, AZ
A frozen evaporator coil blocks heat from leaving your home. Once the coil ices over, your system loses cooling power and begins to break down from the inside out.
Here’s what happens:
- Refrigerant drops below 32°F and turns moisture on the coil into ice.
- Ice prevents heat transfer and stops the coil from cooling incoming air.
- Your system runs longer and pushes warm air through your vents.
- Ice spreads and blocks airflow across the coil.
- The compressor strains to reach the set temperature and draws more power.
- Internal pressure climbs and accelerates wear on motors, valves, and seals.
- If the ice stays in place, the compressor overheats or shuts off.
Don’t just address the symptoms; fix the problem at the source to restore proper cooling and avoid more expensive repairs later.
Five Answers to the Question: Why Does My AC Coil Freeze Up?
Your coil freezes when your system loses the balance between airflow and refrigerant pressure. Once this happens, cold air builds up, moisture freezes on the coil, and your system loses its ability to pull heat from your home.
Low Refrigerant Levels and Leaks
Refrigerant controls the pressure and temperature inside the coil. When the level drops too low, pressure drops, refrigerant over-expands, and temperatures sink below freezing. Moisture in the air freezes on contact and begins to coat the coil.
Refrigerant leaks are the usual cause, but just topping off the refrigerant won’t fix anything. A technician has to locate the leak, seal it, and recharge the system properly. If you wait, the ice will spread, airflow will drop, and the compressor will overheat or fail.
Dirty Air Filter
Your filter keeps debris out of your system and keeps air moving across the coil. A dirty air filter cuts off airflow, trapping cold air inside the system and causing freezing.
Without enough air passing through, refrigerant doesn’t release heat, and the coil ices over. Replacing your filter every one to three months helps prevent restricted airflow and keeps your system cooling efficiently.
Blocked Vents
When furniture or closed louvers block vents, airflow slows down, and pressure shifts inside the system. This drop in circulation lowers the coil’s surface temperature and allows ice to form.
Check every supply and return vent to make sure nothing’s blocking airflow. Open vents help keep air moving evenly and protect your system from freezing up again.
Faulty Blower Fan
A faulty blower fan is another common answer to the question, “Why does my AC coil freeze up?” When the motor slows down or stops, airflow slows down, and the coil starts to freeze.
Weak airflow at the vents, buzzing sounds, or long run times without cooling usually point to a fan issue. Hire a professional technician in New River, AZ, to check the motor, blades, and wiring to restore airflow and prevent future freezing.
Electrical Wiring Problems
Wiring issues interrupt the power that controls fans, motors, and other components responsible for airflow and refrigerant movement. When power drops or cuts out, airflow slows, refrigerant pressure shifts, and the coil begins to freeze.
Scorched terminals, loose connections, or damaged insulation all point to electrical problems. A technician will test the system, repair damaged wiring, and make sure every component gets consistent power. Fixing these issues keeps your system running smoothly and helps prevent another freeze-up.
Stop Frozen Coils Before They Shut Down Your Entire System in New River, AZ
For many New River homeowners, it doesn’t make sense that coils freeze in a place where the temperature stays above 100 degrees for months. But when airflow drops, or refrigerant pressure falls too low, your system loses its ability to move heat. Moisture in the air starts freezing on the coil, and ice takes over.
Frozen coils don’t just affect comfort. If you let the problem sit, it often leads to compressor failure. To learn what happens when the damage goes further, read our other blog about replacing an AC compressor.
If you’re still asking yourself, “Why does my AC coil freeze up?” reach out to Mountainside Air for the best local service and expert answers.