Never Ignore Ice on Your Air Conditioner: Here's Why

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Never Ignore Ice on Your Air Conditioner: Here's Why
April 2, 2025

Your air conditihvaconer is designed to keep your home cool and comfortable, but if you ever notice ice forming on it, that’s a sign of trouble. Ice buildup on an AC unit might seem harmless—or even like it’s working extra hard to cool your home—but in reality, it’s a red flag that something is wrong. Ignoring this issue can lead to costly repairs, system breakdowns, and even a complete AC replacement.

What Causes Ice on Your Air Conditioner?

Ice on your AC unit is usually caused by airflow issues or refrigerant problems. When airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil gets too cold, causing condensation to freeze. Similarly, if your system has low refrigerant levels, it can drop below freezing, leading to ice formation. Common causes include:

  • Dirty air filters – A clogged filter blocks airflow, making it harder for your AC to function properly.
  • Blocked or closed vents – Restricted airflow can cause your system to overwork and freeze.
  • Dirty evaporator coils – When coils are covered in dirt and grime, they can’t absorb heat efficiently.
  • Low refrigerant levels – If your AC is low on refrigerant, it can’t regulate temperature correctly, leading to ice buildup.
  • Blower motor issues – A malfunctioning blower fan can’t circulate air properly, causing freezing inside the unit.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Ice on Your AC

Many homeowners assume that a little ice on their AC isn’t a big deal, but leaving it unchecked can lead to serious consequences.

  1. Reduced Cooling Efficiency – Ice buildup prevents your AC from cooling properly, making your home feel warmer even when the system is running.
  2. Increased Energy Bills – A struggling AC has to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and increased costs.
  3. Potential System Damage – Ice puts strain on AC components, potentially leading to motor or compressor failure.
  4. Water Damage Risks – When the ice melts, excess water can leak into your home, causing damage to floors, ceilings, and walls.
  5. Complete AC Failure – If the problem isn’t addressed, your air conditioner may stop working altogether, requiring expensive repairs or even a replacement.

What to Do If You See Ice on Your AC

If you notice ice forming on your air conditioner, follow these steps before calling a professional:

  • Turn off your AC immediately – Running it while frozen can cause further damage.
  • Check and replace your air filter – A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of restricted airflow.
  • Ensure all vents are open and unblocked – Make sure furniture, curtains, or other items aren’t obstructing air circulation.
  • Let the ice melt – Wait for the ice to fully thaw before restarting your system.

Call A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical for Professional AC Repair

If your AC keeps freezing up, it’s time to call the experts at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical. Our skilled technicians can diagnose the issue, make necessary repairs, and ensure your system is running smoothly again. Don’t let ice damage your AC—call us today at !

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A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical came recommended from a friend who is a current inspector. I've used them for years for furnace and AC maintenance. Their customer service is excellent—helpful, friendly, and persistent in scheduling my maintenance. I appreciate that they've never pushed to replace my old furnace but instead helped me decide when to repair or replace without being pushy about sales. Finding trustworthy repair folks is hard, and I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed.

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A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical did a wonderful job. They were on time, wore shoe coverings, and worked diligently. They replaced our air filter and an electrical part under warranty, explaining everything clearly. The work was clean and professional, and the team was congenial and pleasant.

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Everyone we’ve dealt with has been polite, positive, and very courteous. A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical quickly replaced our furnace during the coldest part of a snowy winter. Other companies couldn’t get out for 1-2 weeks, but A-TEMP assessed it the same day and replaced it in 2 days. Can’t say enough great things about this company!

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