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Will Frozen AC Fix Itself? A Guide To Frozen AC Coils

By Travis Baugh

Frozen coils on air conditioners are a common problem that can hinder their ability to keep homes cool during the summer. It's important to understand the causes and recognize the symptoms of frozen coils so that the issue can be addressed quickly to maintain optimal performance and prevent further damage. And will a frozen AC fix itself? Learn that and more in this guide.

a homeowner shakes a carrier dealer’s hand after frozen air conditioner coil is fixed

Causes of Frozen Coils on Air Conditioners

There could be several causes of frozen coils on air conditioners. One common cause is restricted airflow due to dirty air filters or blocked vents. When airflow is reduced, the condensing coils can become too cold, causing condensation to freeze on them.

Another possible reason for the coils on your air conditioner to freeze is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant circulates through the AC coils, and a leak can cause the pressure to drop. This decrease in pressure can lead your coils to become excessively cold, resulting in ice buildup.

Signs of frozen coils include reduced cooling capacity, poor airflow, and water leakage around the unit. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent additional damage to your air conditioner.

Ignoring frozen coils can result in decreased cooling efficiency and increased energy consumption. It can also cause more severe issues like compressor damage or a refrigerant leak is one doesn’t already exist. Addressing frozen coils in a timely manner can save you money on energy bills and extend your air conditioner’s lifespan.

There are some common misconceptions about frozen coils that need clarification. One is that running the air conditioner continuously will thaw the frozen coils. However, this can worsen the problem and cause more damage. It’s important to turn off the air conditioner and let the coils thaw naturally or seek professional help.

If you’re experiencing frozen coils on your air conditioner, it’s best to contact local Carrier dealer dealer who can diagnose and resolve the issue. They have the expertise and tools to safely thaw the coils, identify the root cause, and perform any air conditioning repair or adjustments.

Preventing Frozen Coils On Air Conditioners

Regular air conditioner maintenance is essential for preventing frozen coils. Scheduling regular maintenance with your local Carrier dealer ensures that your air conditioner runs efficiently. During these visits, the technician will clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and inspect the overall condition of your unit.

Proper airflow and insulation are also crucial in preventing frozen coils. Ensure that all vents and registers are unobstructed and open. Blocked airflow can lead to inadequate heat exchange, causing the coils to freeze. Additionally, make sure your home is properly insulated to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the risk of extreme temperature fluctuations.

Avoiding temperature extremes is another key factor in preventing frozen coils. Setting your thermostat to a moderate temperature range can help prevent the coils from freezing. Avoid setting the temperature too low, as this can cause the coils to drop below freezing, leading to ice formation.

Using a programmable thermostat can be a helpful tool in preventing frozen coils. With a programmable thermostat, you can set specific temperature ranges for different times of the day. This allows for more precise control over your home’s temperature, reducing the likelihood of extreme temperature fluctuations that can contribute to frozen coils.

Will Frozen AC Fix Itself?

A frozen air conditioner will not fix itself and requires attention to prevent further damage. If your AC is frozen, it’s important to turn it off immediately to allow the ice to thaw and avoid damaging the compressor.


Once the system has thawed, the root cause of the freezing should be diagnosed and repaired by a professional. For example, if the air filter is dirty, replacing it can improve airflow and prevent future freezing. If refrigerant levels are low, a technician will need to identify and repair any leaks before recharging the system. A faulty thermostat or a clogged evaporator coil may also require service.


Leaving a frozen AC untreated can lead to more serious issues, including compressor failure or permanent damage to the system. 

Fixing Frozen AC Coils

If you’ve noticed that your air conditioner is not cooling effectively, frozen coils could be the culprit. Frozen coils can lead to reduced airflow and poor cooling performance. The first step in resolving the issue is to turn off your air conditioner. Continuing to run the unit with frozen coils can cause further damage.

Next, check for any airflow restrictions that may be causing the coils to freeze. Inspect the air filter and ensure it is clean. A dirty or clogged filter can obstruct proper airflow, leading to coil freezing. Replace or clean the filter if necessary. Additionally, check if there are any obstructions around the air vents or return registers.

Thawing the coils safely is an important step. Do not attempt to speed up the process by using heat sources like hairdryers or heaters. Instead, allow the coils to defrost naturally. This may take a few hours or even overnight. Once the coils have thawed completely, you can proceed to the next step.

a carrier dealer answers will frozen ac fix itself

Contact A Carrier Dealer To Assist With Frozen Air Conditioner Coils

If you’ve followed the above steps and the problem persists, it’s time to seek professional assistance. Contact your local Carrier dealer who can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs. They have the expertise and tools to identify any underlying problems and get your air conditioner back to optimal performance.

a carrier dealer talks to homeowners after frozen ac coil repair

Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen AC Coils

You can address some issues related to frozen AC coils yourself, such as turning off the system to allow the coils to thaw and checking or replacing dirty air filters. However, if the freezing persists after thawing or if you suspect low refrigerant levels, it's best to consult a professional.
If your AC coil is frozen, turn off the unit to allow the ice to melt. Check and replace the air filter if it's clogged, and ensure airflow is not restricted. If the problem persists, call a professional to check refrigerant levels and perform further inspection and repair.
To fix freezing AC coils, first, turn off the system to prevent further damage. Check and replace dirty air filters to improve airflow. Clear any debris around the outdoor unit. Also, check the thermostat settings to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If freezing persists, consult an HVAC technician, as it may indicate deeper issues that need professional attention, such as low refrigerant levels.
To fix a frozen AC unit, turn it off to let the ice melt. Check and replace the air filter if it's clogged, and ensure the vents are clear. Also, clean the coils. If the issue persists, call a professional to inspect for refrigerant leaks or a malfunctioning component.
No, you should not run your AC with frozen coils. Operating the system while the coils are frozen can cause further damage to the unit, leading to costly repairs.
Ice forms on air conditioner coils primarily due to insufficient airflow, which can result from dirty air filters, blocked ducts, or failing fans. Low refrigerant levels can also cause freezing, as the pressure drops and leads to lower temperatures on the coils. Additionally, operating the AC in extremely humid conditions or setting the thermostat too low can contribute to ice formation.
The time it takes for AC coils to unfreeze typically ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the ice buildup and ambient conditions. To expedite the process, turn off the AC and allow warm air to circulate around the coils. Avoid using heat sources directly on the coils, as this can damage the unit.
Leave your AC off for 3-4 hours to allow the frozen coil to thaw completely. Ensure the airflow is clear by checking the filter and vents. Once thawed, turn the system back on and monitor for any recurring issues. If freezing persists, call a professional.
Low Freon, otherwise known as refrigerant, levels cause the pressure in the evaporator coils to drop, making them too cold. This leads to moisture freezing on the coils, which disrupts the cooling process. Low refrigerant can be caused by leaks or improper levels, requiring professional repair.

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