Beware of Air Conditioner Ice

As you use your air conditioner more and more to stay cool this summer, you may notice ice starting to form on the inside coil of the unit. This may seem like confirmation that the air conditioner is working normally, but that’s not the case. In fact, ice buildup indicates a serious issue with the air conditioner that needs to be solved. Let’s take a look at why air conditioners ice over, and the damage that can result.

Why It Happens
Your air conditioner cools your home using an evaporator coil. During operation, this coil evaporates refrigerant to siphon thermal energy from the air in the ducts. Condensation forms on the coil as the air around it is constantly being cooled below the dew point. The constant flow of warm air from the ducts allows the condensate to drain out of the system. If the flow of air is interrupted, though, the temperature of the air around the coil will drop below freezing. This will cause the condensate to freeze and form ice.

Problems Ice Causes
If the evaporator coil ices over, it will lose access to the thermal energy in the air. This will prevent the air conditioner from properly cooling your home. The weight of the ice can permanently warp the coil, requiring that it be replaced. If the ice is not dealt with in time, it can spread down the refrigerant line to other parts of the system. The spread of ice can damage parts like the compressor, which will threaten the operation of the entire system. This is why it’s so important to call for repairs as soon as you notice ice forming on your air conditioner.

SPS Mechanical Inc. provides a full range of air conditioner repair services throughout West Deptford, NJ. Call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts.