What to Do if Your Evaporator Coil Is Frozen
When your AC stops cooling and ice covers the evaporator coil, you need to act fast. A frozen evaporator coil can signal issues like restricted airflow or low refrigerant. Addressing these problems promptly helps you avoid more extensive damage.
1. Turn Off Your AC and Let It Defrost
First, switch off your system. Airflow over a frozen coil can damage the compressor. Let the ice melt completely—this may take several hours.
2. Check and Replace the Air Filter
A clogged filter reduces airflow, often causing coil freeze-up. Replace it or clean it regularly to maintain optimal performance.
3. Inspect Air Vents and Blower Fan
Ensure that all supply and return vents are open and unblocked. Also, verify that the blower motor is operating correctly—proper airflow prevents future freeze issues.
4. Examine Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant causes your coil to dip below freezing. If you suspect a leak, call technicians experienced in refrigerant diagnostics and repair since improper handling is unsafe.
5. Clean the Evaporator Coil
Dust and debris on the coil can disrupt heat transfer, leading to freezing. You can gently spray a no-rinse coil cleaner or reach out to our team who specializes in coil cleaning and tune-ups.
6. Schedule Annual Maintenance
Seasonal tune-ups help prevent frozen coils. Our AC tune-up service includes coil inspection, airflow testing, and more to keep systems healthy.
Why Evaporator Coils Freeze
- Poor airflow: Caused by clogged filters or closed vents, it lowers coil temperature.
- Low refrigerant: Can point to leaks—technician help is essential.
- Dirty coils: Insulate the coil, causing it to freeze.
- Mechanical issues: Problems with fans or thermostats can also contribute.
Service Areas We Cover
We’re proud to help homeowners in: Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, Cinco Ranch, West University Place, Afton Oaks and surrounding neighborhoods with reliable AC repair.
Ready to Thaw Your Frozen Coil?
If your evaporator coil freezes or your home isn’t cooling properly, don’t wait. Trust Bellaire Air Conditioning for fast AC repair, coil cleaning, and system tune-up. Call (713) 772‑1217 or schedule online now!
FAQs
How do you unfreeze an evaporator coil?
To unfreeze an evaporator coil, turn off your air conditioning system and allow the ice to melt naturally. This can take several hours depending on the extent of the freeze. Improving airflow—by replacing a dirty air filter or clearing blocked vents—can help speed up the process. Never try to scrape the ice off, as this can damage the coil.
How long to leave AC off to unfreeze?
In most cases, you should leave the AC off for at least 4 to 8 hours to allow the evaporator coil to fully defrost. Using the fan-only setting can help circulate warm air and accelerate the thawing process. If ice persists longer than a day, there may be a deeper issue such as low refrigerant or a malfunctioning blower motor.
How much does it cost to fix a frozen evaporator coil?
The cost to fix a frozen coil depends on the underlying cause. If it’s something simple like a dirty air filter or clogged drain line, repairs can be under $150. However, if low refrigerant or electrical problems are involved, costs can rise to $300–$1,500, especially if the refrigerant needs recharging or leaks need sealing.
What causes an evap coil to freeze over?
Common causes include low airflow, dirty air filters, clogged condensate drain lines, low refrigerant levels, and thermostat issues. Any of these can prevent the coil from absorbing heat properly, which causes moisture to freeze on its surface.
How would you remove frost on an evaporator coil?
The safest way is to turn off the system and let it thaw naturally. Avoid using sharp tools or heat sources, which could damage the coils. Once thawed, investigate the cause—whether it’s airflow restriction, low refrigerant, or poor maintenance—to prevent the problem from returning.
If you’re dealing with a frozen coil and want a fast, reliable fix, contact Bellaire Air Conditioning. Our expert technicians can diagnose and resolve the issue so your home stays cool and efficient.