A Common Air Conditioning Misconception

At Aqua Plumbing & Air, we often hear customers excitedly tell us that their air conditioner must be working great because they can see ice forming on the unit. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common misconceptions in home cooling, and it couldn’t be further from the truth.

Let’s break down why ice on your AC is actually a red flag:

Why Ice Forms

• Restricted airflow
• Low refrigerant levels
• Dirty air filters
• Mechanical failures

When your air conditioning system is functioning correctly, it should never form ice. The presence of ice indicates that your system is struggling and operating inefficiently. This can lead to:

• Higher energy bills
• Reduced cooling capacity
• Potential system damage
• Premature component failure

The Real Story

A properly functioning AC unit maintains an evaporator coil temperature that’s cool enough to remove heat and humidity from your home but warm enough to prevent freezing. When ice forms, it’s usually because something is preventing proper heat transfer or airflow.

What You Should Do

If you notice ice forming on your AC unit:
1. Turn off the system immediately
2. Allow the ice to melt completely
3. Check and replace your air filter if needed
4. Contact a licensed HVAC professional

Remember, putting off repairs when you see ice forming can lead to more extensive and expensive problems down the road. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues before they start.

Don’t let myths about AC performance fool you – ice formation is always a warning sign that needs professional attention. Aqua Plumbing & Air’s certified technicians can diagnose and resolve these issues quickly, keeping your system running efficiently all season long.