What to do if you find ice on your HVAC system

Why You Should Shut Off Your HVAC System If You See Ice

If you ever spot ice forming on your air conditioning unit—whether it’s on the outdoor condenser, refrigerant lines, or even inside on the evaporator coil—turn off your HVAC system immediately. It might seem counterintuitive, especially during hot weather, but continuing to run your system while it’s frozen can cause serious and expensive damage.

 Why Does Ice Form on HVAC Systems?

Ice build-up is usually a sign of a larger issue, such as:

• Restricted airflow due to dirty filters or blocked vents
• Low refrigerant levels caused by a leak
• A malfunctioning blower fan or other internal component

When airflow or refrigerant levels drop, the evaporator coil gets too cold and begins freezing moisture in the air, leading to ice formation.

 What Happens If You Keep It Running?

Running your system while it’s frozen can:

• Damage the compressor – the most expensive part of your AC system
• Worsen refrigerant issues
• Reduce overall system efficiency
• Lead to a complete breakdown

 What Should You Do?

1. Turn off your system immediately at the thermostat or breaker.
2. Let the ice thaw completely — this may take several hours.
3. Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
4. Call a professional technician to diagnose the cause and perform any necessary repairs.

Ignoring ice build-up can turn a minor fix into a costly repair. So if you spot ice, play it safe — shut it off and call in the pros!