Frozen AC Lines in the Summer

It’s the middle of summer and despite the 90-degree weather, you notice your air conditioning lines are frozen over with a layer of ice. What gives? Sometimes the solution is as easy as replacing the filter, other times an HVAC professional may be needed.
Common Reasons AC Lines Freeze Over

• Low refrigerant level
• Refrigerant leak
• Dirty filter
• Clogged duct
• Blocked or closed vent cover
• Closed damper
• Dirty evaporator coil
• Malfunctioning/damaged indoor blower fan

Keep in mind that although you can find DIY solutions online for each of these issues, it’s best to contact a professional who has the right tools and experience to repair your system. 

What to Do if Your AC Lines Freeze Over
If you spot ice coating your AC lines, the first thing you should do is immediately turn off your air conditioning. This will prevent the problem from worsening. If you’re not ready to call someone just yet, you can try checking that all the air vents are open. Be sure to also check for dirty filters and make sure curtains or other household items are not blocking any vents. On top of that, you can hire a professional to come clean your ducts. 

Sometimes, these initial checks solve the issue. However, if not, you’ll need to contact a professional as soon as possible. The last thing you want in the middle of summer is to be left without cool air.

So, to recap: Turn off your cooling system as soon as you notice ice on your lines. Then run through some common checks. If those checks don’t work, call a professional. Do not attempt to tamper with your air conditioning on your own unless you are a licensed professional. You could end up worsening the problem and delaying a solution.

AC issues happen, but they aren’t the end of the world. Stay calm and take immediate action to ensure that issues get addressed properly. An experienced home inspector or HVAC professional can help you diagnose AC issues and find a timely solution.