Why Does Your AC Freeze Up in Hot Weather?

In the blazing North Carolina and Virginia summers, there is nothing you want more than to stay cool. After a long hard day at work, you deserve to relax. But, there’s one thing in your way. Your time to “cool” off, isn’t all that cool. If your AC is freezing up in hot weather, you’ll want to get it fixed right away.

Potential Reasons Your AC Has Quit

If your AC has been freezing up in hot weather, there are a few things that could be the root problem. You can check some of these things on your own to see if there is any mitigating that can be done before calling in the professionals.

Clogged Filter

First, you’ll want to check to see if the filter is clogged. A clogged filter inhibits airflow and can cause the system to freeze. It is important to check this first because replacing the filter is usually a cheap and easy fix. If the filter is clogged, you can replace it yourself by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.

Leaking Refrigerant

Another potential problem is a leak in the system. Leaking refrigerants often cause ACs to freeze up in hot weather. If the refrigerant lines are leaking, it can cause a buildup of ice around certain parts and components of the AC. You’ll want to get this fixed as soon as possible by a professional because it is illegal to work on the refrigerant lines yourself.

Drain Line Blockages

If your refrigerant isn’t leaking and you don’t have a clogged filter you might have a blockage in the drain lines. This will cause water to freeze and disrupt the airflow of your AC. You can clear out any blockages yourself or call a professional if you need help.

Blocked Vents

Finally, your AC can freeze in hot weather if the vents are blocked. This reduces airflow and causes freezing. Check to make sure all of your vents are clear and open to maximize airflow.

How To Fix It: 3 Easy Steps

If your AC hasn’t frozen up yet, but you want it to stay working—preventative work is your best friend. Or, if your AC has already quit, there are some things you can do to fix it too. There are three simple things you can check to keep your AC going.

Air Filter Maintenance

By checking your air filter regularly, you can prevent a lot of problems. This includes freezing up in hot weather. Change your air filter every 3 months to keep everything running smoothly.

Clear Blockages

To keep your drain line clear of blockages, try using a vacuum to clear away the debris. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to free up the drain line. If that doesn’t work, you might need to call in an AC technician.

Move Your Furniture Around

One of the biggest ways to prevent your AC from freezing up in hot weather is to move your furniture! If your furniture is covering vents, the airflow will be restricted. If you move your furniture away, you’ll get the maximum air flow and prevent freezing.

Choose Bell Cow and Stay Cool All Summer Long

If you’re still grappling with extreme heat in your house, it’s time to call in a professional HVAC technician. They’ll be able to diagnose the issue and fix it fast.

At Bell Cow, we want you to stay cool even in the blazing North Carolina and Virginia summers. With 50 years of combined experience, our AC technicians can get your AC back up and running in no time at all. Contact us today or reach out for an emergency appointment—we got you covered.