If your AC keeps freezing up and shutting down, you might think that the appliance is low on coolant. Although low coolant can cause air conditioners to ice over, it isn't always the case. Sometimes, a dirty evaporator coil can be the culprit behind a frozen AC. Here's more information about your frozen air conditioner and tips to fix the issues yourself.

Why Is Your AC Really Freezing Up?

When most air conditioners freeze up, it's usually one of several problems, including a dirty air filter and low or leaky coolant. If you've already changed the filter and refilled the coolant, check your evaporator coil, which can clog up with dirt, mold, and even dust over time.

The evaporator coil sits inside the air handler inside your AC closet. The coil keeps your home cool by removing heat from the air that passes over it. If contaminants pass through the air filter, the coil can build up with debris. Ice can form on the surfaces of a blocked evaporator cool until it stops working properly. The ice causes the coolant lines to freeze up as well, which places stress on the parts located outside the house.

Your cooling system may blow out warm air, or it can shut down altogether. If the system fails, you may need to call in an HVAC contractor to repair or replace it. To avoid any complications with your air conditioning system, thaw out the evaporator coil immediately.

What Can You Do to Thaw Out Your Frozen AC?

First, turn off your cooling system at the circuit breaker or thermostat. To access the coil, you'll need to remove the large paneling that covers it with a screw driver, or by simply pulling it off with your hands. Set the paneling aside and examine the coil. If the coil is completely frozen over with ice, you'll see it right away. If there's no sign of ice on the front surface of the coil, examine the sides of it. The thick, copper tubes should appear frosted with a sheen of ice or completely hidden behind ice.

Cover the flooring with a large absorbent blanket or vinyl tarp, then position a large bucket or container beneath the evaporator coil. The thawing time may vary, so keep a keen eye out on the evaporator coil. 

After the ice melts, use a spray bottle filled with 1 cup of white household vinegar and 3 cups clear water to clean the coil. Vinegar is often used as a safe alternative to bleach and other harsh cleansers. Afterward, use a clean, dry rag to gently wipe down the coil. Reattach the paneling to the air handler, clean up the flooring and allow the evaporator coil at least 30 minutes to completely dry before returning power to the cooling system. 

If your cooling system continues to have problems after a day or so of thawing out the coil, contact a contractor, like one from Shenandoah Air Conditioning & Heating, for additional help.