Seeing ice form on your air conditioner in the middle of summer can be surprising—and it’s definitely not something to ignore. While it might seem harmless or even “cool,” ice buildup on your AC unit is actually a red flag that something's wrong. Ignoring it can lead to serious damage, reduced comfort, and increased repair costs. At Western Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen firsthand how fast a small issue like this can snowball into a costly repair, which is why we always recommend early action.
What Causes Ice to Form on an AC Unit?
There are several reasons why your air conditioner might freeze up. One common cause is poor airflow. When your AC system doesn’t get enough warm air passing over the evaporator coil, the coil can freeze. This often happens when filters are dirty or blocked, ducts are obstructed, or the blower fan isn’t working properly.
Another possible culprit is low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from your home. When levels drop too low—often due to a leak—the pressure in your system drops and causes the coil to freeze. If you see ice and suspect a leak, it's time to call a professional right away.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Ice
It’s tempting to think the ice will just melt away and fix itself, but this isn’t the case. Allowing ice to persist can damage vital parts of your AC system, like the compressor. A failed compressor can be one of the most expensive components to replace.
Plus, when your system is frozen, it’s not running efficiently. That means your home will be less comfortable and your energy bills may spike as the unit works harder to cool your space. You’ll also risk mold or water damage when the ice eventually melts and overflows into areas it shouldn’t.
What You Should Do
If you notice ice forming on your AC unit, turn off the system immediately to prevent further damage. Then, check your air filters and replace them if they’re dirty. It’s also a good idea to inspect your vents and make sure nothing is blocking airflow.
Next, contact a licensed HVAC technician to inspect your unit. At Western Heating & Cooling, our NATE-certified technicians will diagnose the root of the problem, whether it’s airflow-related, a refrigerant leak, or something else entirely. We’ll get your system back to peak performance—safely and efficiently.
Prevent Future Ice Buildup
The best way to avoid ice on your AC is with regular maintenance. Seasonal tune-ups help catch issues before they become major problems. At Western Heating & Cooling, we offer thorough AC maintenance services in Portland that keep your system running smoothly, year after year.
Don’t wait for ice to take down your comfort—call (503) 303-0771 today and let us help you stay cool all summer long.