Why is Your Window Aircon Freezing Up? What To Do

Is your window air conditioner freezing up and leaving you puzzled? You’re not alone. A freezing air conditioner is a common problem that many homeowners face, especially when you need it most during the warmer months.

Instead of cooling your home, your unit could be blocked with ice, affecting its performance and potentially causing damage. But don’t worry − there are ways to fix it.

When your window air conditioner freezes, it’s usually a sign that something’s not quite right. From airflow issues to refrigerant levels, several factors could be causing the problem.

If left untreated, it can reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency and even lead to costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons behind a freezing window air conditioner and provide you with simple solutions to get it back up and running smoothly. Let’s get started on the causes and what you can do to fix them.

Common Causes of Window Aircon Freezing

When your window air conditioner freezes up, there are several common reasons behind the issue.Here’s a breakdown of the most likely culprits:

• Restricted airflow: A dirty air filter or blocked vents can prevent proper airflow, causing the unit to work harder and leading to freezing. Make sure your air filter is clean and nothing is blocking the air vents.
• Low refrigerant levels: If the refrigerant is too low, it can cause the evaporator coils to get too cold, which can result in ice forming. This is a job for a professional technician, as refrigerant levels need to be topped up by a qualified expert.
• Thermostat set too low: Setting the thermostat too low can cause the air conditioner to overcool, freezing the coils. Keep your thermostat at a moderate level to avoid this problem.
• Dirty evaporator coils: When the coils inside the unit get dirty, airflow is restricted, leading to freezing. Regular cleaning can prevent this.
• Cold outdoor temperatures: If it’s unusually cool outside, the air conditioner may freeze up, especially at night.

Each of these causes has a solution and addressing them early can prevent more serious issues.

How to Diagnose the Problem

When your window air conditioner freezes up, the first step is figuring out what’s causing it. Diagnosing the issue doesn’t have to be complicated, and you can start with a few simple checks.

First, inspect the air filter. A clogged filter can block airflow, making it difficult for your air conditioner to work properly. If it’s dirty, cleaning or replacing it may solve the issue. Next, check the evaporator coils inside the unit. If these are covered in dirt or dust, airflow could be restricted, causing the coils to freeze up.

Another thing to watch for is the thermostat. Ensure it’s set to a reasonable temperature − not too low. A faulty or poorly set thermostat can lead to freezing problems.

Finally, listen for unusual noises or look for signs of low refrigerant, like a hissing sound. Low refrigerant levels must be handled by a professional heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician, as this requires technical expertise.

Did you install your own window air conditioner? If so, you need to check that you’ve followed the instruction manual properly. By following these simple steps, you can narrow down the cause of your freezing air conditioner and take the appropriate action.

What You Can Do To Fix It

If your window air conditioner is freezing up, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix it. Try these solutions:

• Turn off the air conditioner: The first thing to do is turn off the unit and let the ice melt. Running it while it’s frozen can lead to damage, so it’s best to give it time to thaw.
• Clean or replace the air filter: A dirty filter restricts airflow, which can cause freezing. Remove the filter and either clean it with warm water or replace it if it’s too clogged.
• Unblock air vents: Make sure nothing is obstructing the air vents, both inside and outside. This ensures proper airflow and helps the air conditioner run smoothly.
• Adjust the thermostat: Check the temperature settings. If the thermostat is set too low, raise it to a moderate level to prevent the coils from overcooling.
• Call a professional for refrigerant issues: If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, you’ll need a qualified HVAC technician to handle the job. DIY attempts could damage the unit further.

By following these steps, you can often fix a freezing air conditioner and get it working efficiently again.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Freezing

Preventing your window air conditioner from freezing up again is all about regular maintenance and smart usage. Here are some easy steps you can take:

• Clean the air filter regularly: A clean air filter ensures good airflow, which is essential for preventing freezing. Make it a habit to check and clean your filter every few weeks, especially during the cooling season.
• Inspect the evaporator coils: Dust and debris on the coils can restrict airflow and lead to freezing. Regularly inspect and clean the coils to keep them free of dirt. You can use a soft brush or a vacuum to gently clean them.
• Ensure proper airflow: Keep furniture, curtains, or any other objects from blocking the air vents. Both indoor and outdoor airflow is important for the unit to function properly.
• Monitor thermostat settings: Avoid setting the thermostat too low, especially when the weather isn’t very hot. Moderate settings can prevent overcooling, which often leads to freezing.
• Schedule professional maintenance: Once a year, have a professional technician inspect and service your air conditioner to check refrigerant levels and perform any necessary repairs.

These simple preventative measures will help your aircon run smoothly and efficiently for longer.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your window air conditioner may continue freezing up. That’s when it’s time to call in a professional.

If you’ve cleaned the filter, checked the coils, and adjusted the thermostat but the problem persists, it’s likely something more complex − like low refrigerant levels or a faulty component. These issues require specialised tools and knowledge to fix.

Another sign you need a technician is if you hear unusual noises, like hissing or grinding, or notice a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is hazardous and should only be handled by a licensed professional.

Additionally, if the freezing issue keeps recurring, an expert can inspect the entire system and identify any hidden problems that could be causing the freeze-up.

Calling a professional ensures that your air conditioner is repaired correctly, preventing further damage and extending its lifespan. Don’t hesitate to get help when needed to keep your aircon running smoothly.

Stop the Freeze and Keep Your Cool

Dealing with a freezing window air conditioner can be frustrating, but the good news is that most causes are easy to identify and fix. By understanding the common reasons behind this issue − like restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, or incorrect thermostat settings − you can take action before it leads to more serious problems.

Simple steps like cleaning the air filter, checking the coils and keeping your vents clear can go a long way in maintaining your unit’s performance.

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding future freezing. Regularly clean your air conditioner, monitor your thermostat, and consider scheduling a professional inspection once a year.

With these practices in place, your window aircon will work efficiently and keep your home cool without any icy interruptions. If the problem persists or seems too complex, don’t hesitate to call in a professional to help get your unit back in top shape.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Air Conditioning’s Terms & Conditions here.