❄️ Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing?By Clockwork HVAC | Trusted Ottawa Cooling Experts

It’s one of the most common summer service calls we get at Clockwork HVAC:

“Why is my air conditioner freezing up—even when it’s hot outside?”

If you're an Ottawa homeowner dealing with a frozen AC unit, you're not alone—and it's definitely not something to ignore. A frozen air conditioner can mean reduced cooling, increased energy bills, and eventually, serious system damage.

Let’s break down what causes AC freezing and how to fix it fast.

🧊 Common Signs Your AC Is Freezing

Even if you can’t see ice on the system, here are some signs that something’s not right:

• Weak or warm airflow from vents

• Ice on refrigerant lines or outdoor unit

• Water pooling around the indoor unit

• AC runs constantly but doesn’t cool

• Higher than normal hydro bills

If you're noticing these symptoms in your Ottawa home, it's time to investigate before things get worse.

🔍 Why Is Your Air Conditioner Freezing?

Here are the most common reasons we see AC units freeze in Ottawa homes:

1. Poor Airflow

When your system can’t move enough air over the evaporator coil, it gets too cold—and starts to freeze.

Causes include:

• Dirty air filters

• Blocked or closed vents

• Obstructed return ducts

• Failing blower motor

✅ Solution: Change your filter, open all vents, and have airflow checked by a pro.

2. Low Refrigerant Levels

If your system is low on refrigerant, it can’t absorb enough heat to keep the coil above freezing. This is usually caused by a leak.

Signs of a refrigerant issue:

• Hissing sounds

• Long run times

• Ice on the copper lines

✅ Solution: Call Clockwork HVAC for a refrigerant check and leak repair—this isn't a DIY fix.

3. Thermostat or Control Problems

If your thermostat isn’t working properly, your AC might run longer than necessary—dropping the temperature too far and causing freezing.

✅ Solution: Test your thermostat or upgrade to a programmable smart model. We can help with that!

4. Dirty Evaporator Coils

Over time, dust and grime build up on your indoor coil. That buildup acts like insulation, preventing heat transfer and causing the coil to get too cold.

✅ Solution: Schedule a professional AC tune-up to clean the coil and inspect your system.

5. Ottawa’s Cool Summer Nights

Believe it or not, if you run your AC during a chilly evening (below 16°C / 60°F), the system can freeze because there’s not enough warm air to keep the coil balanced.

✅ Solution: Avoid running your AC on cooler nights or install a temperature sensor to prevent freezing in these conditions.

⚠️ Don’t Ignore a Frozen AC

If your AC is freezing, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a sign of a bigger problem that can damage your system if left unchecked.

A frozen AC can lead to:

• Compressor failure

• Water damage from melting ice

• Reduced system lifespan

• Higher energy bills

🛠️ How Clockwork HVAC Can Help

At Clockwork HVAC, we’re Ottawa’s local experts in cooling system diagnostics and repair. If your AC is freezing, we’ll:

✅ Inspect the entire system
✅ Test refrigerant levels and pressure
✅ Check for airflow and duct issues
✅ Clean the coils and filter
✅ Make recommendations for long-term performance

💬 Final Thoughts: Don’t Sweat a Frozen AC

A frozen air conditioner can be frustrating, but with the right professional support, it’s an easy fix. Whether it’s a clogged filter or a low refrigerant issue, Clockwork HVAC has your back.

📍 Proudly serving Ottawa homeowners with fast, friendly, and reliable cooling service.

📞 Call Clockwork HVAC today at 613-513-6033

Clockwork HVAC – Always on your side.