The Runaway AC and the Frozen Coil

Dealing with a malfunctioning air conditioner that refuses to shut off and has a frozen coil is a common challenge for experienced technicians. This issue typically arises from refrigerant leaks, resulting in a diminished refrigerant charge. Consequently, the AC struggles to absorb heat effectively, leading to continuous operation, excessive power consumption, and component wear. The formation of ice on the coil exacerbates the problem by further hindering heat absorption. It is essential to rely on professional assistance to address this issue, including sealing the leaks, recharging the refrigerant, and defrosting the coils.

What Are The Signs of a Malfunctioning AC?

Experiencing an air conditioner that simply won't turn off and displays a frozen coil is a frequently encountered problem that professional technicians are well-acquainted with. Here are some signs that you are in need of professional assistance:

Continuous Operation

The AC runs non-stop, even when reaching the desired temperature.

Excessive Power Consumption

The unit drains significant amounts of power due to continuous operation.

Component Wear

Continuous running puts strain on the AC's components, potentially leading to accelerated wear and tear.

Reduced Cooling Capacity

The air conditioner struggles to lower the temperature effectively, indicating a problem with heat absorption.

Formation of Ice on The Coil

The presence of ice on the evaporator coil indicates difficulty in absorbing heat and can further impede the AC's performance.

Moisture Accumulation

Moisture along the coil can freeze, exacerbating the issue and hindering heat absorption.

Refrigerant Leaks

The malfunction is often caused by a loss of refrigerant due to leaks.

It is crucial to refrain from attempting a DIY fix, such as scraping off the ice yourself. Don't attempt to fix this problem yourself (like trying to scrape off the ice!). You must have a professional seal the leaks, recharge the refrigerant, and then defrost the coils.