What Causes Ice Buildup on Air Conditioners?

If you’ve spotted ice buildup on your air conditioner it is a clear sign that your air conditioner is experiencing a problem. Ice buildup is a common issue with air conditioners and can often be fixed on your own. Occasionally there may be bigger issues causing ice buildup and you may need a professional to help with getting it running efficiently again. This article will detail why your air conditioner has ice buildup and what you can do about it.

Your Air Conditioner isn’t Getting Enough Air

These statement sounds silly but when your air conditioner is not getting enough airflow the temperature of your coils will drop below freezing and cause ice buildup. If this is the first time you have experienced this issue it is very likely that your air filter is dirty or clogged. We suggest replacing your air filter every month or two to prevent issues.

In order to prevent your air conditioner from becoming clogged it is a good idea to conduct regular air conditioning maintenance. See our air conditioner maintenance checklist to assist you with developing a schedule and staying on top of maintenance.

There are other reasons why your air conditioner may not be getting enough air. Dirty coils, damaged ductwork or not having enough return ducts can all affect the efficiency of your air conditioner. Be sure to conduct regular duct cleaning and check for leaking ducts if you suspect a problem.
You can clean your air conditioner coils at home. Though this task is slightly more involved than changing an air filter it can be done on your own. See our guide on how to clean air conditioner coils for instructions on how to complete this task.

You Have a Refrigerant Leak

If you have followed the tips above and are still experiencing issues with your air conditioner having ice build up your problems may be more serious. In some cases, your air conditioner may be leaking refrigerant. This will cause your coils to get too cold and will eventually lead to ice buildup on your air conditioner.

In this circumstance it is a good idea to call a qualified professional to help you repair your air conditioning unit. At EVAM Canada we have more than 25 years of experience in repairing air conditioners. Call us today and let us help you get your air conditioner running efficiently again.