If you’ve ever experienced a frozen HVAC system during the wintertime, you’ll know it’s not the greatest or warmest experience.
But, just like anything else, addressing the cause of the problem could save you time and money down the line. In this blog post, we’ll discuss possible causes of your HVAC unit freezing up in winter as well as solutions for returning things to normal.
We understand how stressful it can be when something goes wrong in your home – especially with heating and cooling – so we hope to provide some helpful insight into what might be going on. Read on to learn more!
Table of Contents
The most common causes of an HVAC unit freezing up in winter
Is your HVAC unit freezing up in the winter? Here are some common causes:
During the winter months, it’s common for people to experience a freezing up of their HVAC unit. This can be frustrating and inconvenient, but understanding the most common causes of this problem can help homeowners troubleshoot and get their systems back up and running quickly.
Additionally, low refrigerant levels, as well as thermostat settings that are set too low, can contribute to a system freeze-up.
Experiencing an HVAC freeze? A knowledgeable HVAC technician like Anderson Air will be able to make a diagnosis and provide solutions relatively quickly, so you don’t have to wait long in order to benefit from the warmth of your HVAC system once again.
Snow build-up or blockages
One of the most common causes of an HVAC unit freezing up is lack of maintenance. The primary cause is the accumulation of snow or ice around the outside unit due to inadequate insulation, overgrown plants, or a blocked condenser. Poor airflow can also cause an HVAC unit to freeze due to insufficient warm air coming in from indoors.
A frozen HVAC unit can often be caused by a build-up of snow, dirt or debris in or around the unit, which can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Another common cause of an HVAC unit freezing up is low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is what helps to cool the air inside your home, and if there isn’t enough of it, the air will not be cooled properly. This can cause the coils inside your unit to freeze, which will then cause the entire unit to freeze up.
Your thermostat is set too low
If the thermostat is set too low, this can also cause an HVAC unit to freeze up in winter. The lower the temperature is set, the less will have to work to maintain that temperature, which can lead to it freezing up.
Dirty air filter
A dirty air filter may also cause an HVAC unit to freeze up in winter. A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the unit, which can cause it to overwork itself and freeze up. Additionally, a dirty air filter can cause ice to build up on the coils of the unit, which can also lead to it freezing up.
HVAC unit frozen in winter?: Steps to troubleshoot it
Is your HVAC freezing up in winter? Here are some things you can do to fix it and prevent it.
Check the thermostat
The first thing you should do if your HVAC unit is frozen is to check the thermostat. If the thermostat is set to a temperature that is lower than the current room temperature, then it may be causing the unit to freeze.
Check for ice on the coils
Another reason why your HVAC unit may be frozen is due to ice on the coils. You can check for this by removing the cover of the unit and looking for ice buildup.
Also, be sure to clear snow, ice, and debris from inside or around the unit if it is outside.
Check for blocked airflow
Another possible reason why your HVAC unit is frozen is that there is a blockage in the airflow. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as a dirty air filter or a closed vent.
Turn off the unit
If you have checked all of the above and you still cannot figure out why your HVAC unit is frozen, then you may need to turn it off and call a professional.
Call a professional if your HVAC unit continues to freeze up
If your home’s HVAC unit is freezing up, it could indicate a need for professional attention. This is a problem that should not be delayed and can quickly cause further damage if left unchecked. Calling in a technician as soon as you notice an issue with your HVAC could result in a more efficient operation and lower energy costs over time.
Professional technicians will be able to diagnose the root cause of the freeze-up and suggest the appropriate course of action to get your home back to comfortable temperatures. Additionally, certified technicians know the latest advances in heating and cooling technology, which allows them to address the issue both quickly and effectively.
Don’t hesitate to contact a professional today to restore comfort, safety, and efficiency to your home.
HVAC unit freezing up in winter – Conclusion
Is your HVAC unit freezing up? Don’t wait until it’s too late and you’re dealing with a broken heating system in the middle of winter.
Call a local HVAC professional to take a look. They’ll be able to identify the problem and get your heating system back into shape before the cold weather hits.
