If your air conditioner is spitting out ice, the evaporator or condenser coils are probably frozen. Allowing your AC to continue running can cause serious damage, or at the very least accelerate wear. There are a few answers to the question, “Why is my AC spitting ice?” We will list a few below to help you troubleshoot the issue and know whether you need an HVAC technician’s help.
An air conditioner is designed to keep your home cooler than the outside air temperature. It’s unlikely you’d want it to be colder than 62℉ indoors. If the AC is running full blast, this can cause the temperature around the evaporator coil to fall below freezing. Any condensation or moisture present will freeze on contact. When the outside temperature falls, run the AC in fan mode or turn the system off and use a ceiling fan or open a window.
If your AC is spitting ice and you hear a hissing sound, there’s likely a refrigerant leak. Only a trained technician can fix the problem. The coolant in your AC runs through a closed system. It should never be low. If it is, there will be serious temperature regulation problems in the system and components can easily freeze.
A filter helps keep the air clean, but your air conditioner will run without it. However, when the filter gets dirty or clogged, it’s a different story. A clogged filter reduces airflow. Without enough air passing through them, the coils get colder causing ice to form. To avoid filter issues, replace it every three to six months.
When the evaporator coil is coated in dirt, it won’t allow for effective heat transfer. Warm air may never reach the coils. As a result, they get colder, and frost forms on the surface. Some of this ice can break loose in the airflow and get flung out of the AC vents.
The AC can spit water if the drain is clogged with dirt, mold, or algae. Moisture regularly condensates in an AC system; this is what the drip pan is for. It collects condensate so it can be evacuated via a drain. If the drain isn’t functioning, water can leak from the unit and performance can be affected. The coils may eventually freeze if the issue isn’t fixed.
Insufficient airflow can cause the coil to get cold and freeze, resulting in ice spitting from the AC. This may be due to a faulty fan motor, which can occur due to mechanical or electrical issues. The fan can become loose or break as well. Repairing or replacing an AC fan requires technical expertise.
You can thaw out the unit by running it in fan mode. The ice should start to break down soon after. You might also want to leave the system off, although the process may take five or more hours to complete. During that time, install a new filter just to be on the safe side.
When customers ask us “Why is my AC spitting ice?”, there can be several answers. Depending on the problem, you may need the system inspected to determine whether any types of AC repair are needed. Google Certified for Home Services, we fix any air conditioning problem for clients in Southern California. For service by knowledgeable, experienced, and background-checked technicians, call 833-729-9735 today.
