What Makes My Heat Pump in Charleston, SC Freeze Up?

It may shock you to discover your heat pump freezing up in the middle of the summer in Charleston, SC. Ice forming on the coils of your system can be a problem that stops your AC from working. Here are a few things that might make your heat pump suddenly freeze up.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Your heat pump uses refrigerant to absorb heat from the air in one area and deposit that heat into another area. If your system ever experiences a refrigerant leak, it will lose some of its capacity to absorb that heat.

Consequently, less heat will move through your heat pump, and the temperature prevailing inside it will drop. This will increase the probability that any condensation on your coils may freeze.

Telltale signs of a refrigerant leak include hissing noises and a sweet, ether-like smell. Refrigerant is toxic, so don’t try to stop leaks or refill your system on your own. A trained technician must perform this service for you.

Airflow Obstructions

Airflow is critical to virtually everything that your heat pump does. If anything obstructs it, efficiency and general performance will almost certainly take a noticeable nosedive.

Dirt and debris in your system’s filters, coils or compressor can obstruct airflow. While you can replace filters, the other issues need the attention of maintenance technicians.

Faulty Blower Motor

If your heat pump’s blower motor malfunctions, it won’t be able to move air around effectively. This could lead to ice formation that won’t melt in the system.

Ice shouldn’t form on the coils of your heat pump, especially during the summer. If you see this happening, call M&B Heating and Air to request AC repair services in Charleston, SC.

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