1. Dirty air filter
Symptoms: Weak airflow and ice buildup on lines or indoor coil.
DIY check: Inspect and replace filter if dirty.
Professional fix: Verify airflow/static pressure and check for additional restrictions.
Frozen AC Coil HelpSame-day service available
AC Freezing Up? Fast Diagnosis in Phenix City
If your AC line or indoor coil is freezing, your system is under stress and can lose cooling quickly. Running it frozen can damage major components.
Underwood Heating & Air Conditioning provides same-day frozen-coil diagnostics in Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika, and East Alabama with root-cause repair options.
- •Upfront pricing
- •Licensed & insured
- •Fast local response
AC freezing is usually caused by airflow restriction, refrigerant issues, or component failures that drop coil temperature too low. The right move is safe thawing plus root-cause diagnosis.
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Licensed & InsuredServing Phenix City & East Alabama24/7 Emergency Service
See our Google reviews8 common reasons this HVAC problem happens
2. Blocked or closed supply/return vents
Symptoms: Uneven room airflow and coil icing during long runs.
DIY check: Open closed vents and clear furniture/obstructions from returns.
Professional fix: Balance airflow distribution and confirm total system airflow targets.
3. Blower motor or wheel performance issue
Symptoms: Low airflow despite clean filter and correct thermostat settings.
DIY check: Listen for blower abnormalities or reduced vent velocity.
Professional fix: Test blower components, repair/replace as needed, and validate airflow.
4. Low refrigerant from leak
Symptoms: Persistent freeze-thaw cycles and reduced cooling output.
DIY check: Look for frost and recurring icing after thaw.
Professional fix: Repair leak source and recharge system to manufacturer specifications.
5. Dirty evaporator coil
Symptoms: Cooling decline and icing even with filter changes.
DIY check: If accessible, inspect for visible dust/debris at coil face.
Professional fix: Perform proper coil cleaning and confirm restored heat transfer.
6. Running AC during low outdoor temperatures
Symptoms: Icing on coil/line during cool nights or shoulder season weather.
DIY check: Review thermostat schedules for unnecessary overnight cooling calls.
Professional fix: Adjust controls and verify system operation for prevailing weather conditions.
7. Metering device or expansion control issue
Symptoms: Repeated icing not resolved by basic airflow corrections.
DIY check: After safe thawing, note how quickly ice returns.
Professional fix: Perform refrigerant circuit diagnostics and correct metering faults.
8. Control or sensor fault causing long unsafe runtimes
Symptoms: System over-runs and ices despite proper setpoints.
DIY check: Check thermostat settings and note runtime behavior patterns.
Professional fix: Test control logic and sensors and correct runaway cooling calls.
Quick troubleshooting flow (before you call)
Step 1: Do you see active ice on refrigerant lines or coil area?
If yes: Turn cooling Off and run fan On to thaw.
If no: Go to Step 2.
Step 2: Is filter dirty or vents blocked?
If yes: Replace filter and open vents, then recheck after thaw.
If no: Go to Step 3.
Step 3: After thawing, does ice return quickly?
If yes: Call for same-day diagnosis of refrigerant/airflow root causes.
If no: Go to Step 4.
Step 4: Do you notice weak airflow or blower issues?
If yes: Schedule airflow diagnostics.
If no: Go to Step 5.
Step 5: Still losing cooling performance?
If yes: Book full AC diagnostic to prevent compressor damage.
If no: Monitor operation and schedule maintenance.
DIY checks you can do safely
Use thermostat to start safe thawing
Set cooling Off and fan On so ice can melt without active compressor operation.
Replace dirty filter immediately
Airflow restriction is one of the most common freeze causes.
Open all major supply and return vents
Balanced airflow helps prevent low coil temperature extremes.
Check for recurring ice after restart
Fast recurrence often points to refrigerant or deeper airflow problems.
Watch for water during thaw
Protect nearby surfaces as melting ice can create temporary leak volume.
When to call a professional immediately
- !Repeated freeze cycles with complete no-cooling conditions
- !Burning smell or electrical trip during restart attempts
- !Water leaking near electrical equipment while thawing
- !Indoor temperatures rising rapidly in extreme heat
- !Loud mechanical noises during startup or operation
What to expect from our diagnosis process
- 1. Safe thaw confirmation and baseline airflow checks
- 2. Filter, coil, blower, and duct performance testing
- 3. Refrigerant and temperature diagnostics
- 4. Control/sensor verification for runtime behavior
- 5. Upfront repair options and approval
- 6. Post-repair operation check for stable coil performance
Pricing transparency and next steps
Frozen AC problems can involve airflow corrections, electrical components, or sealed-system repairs.
We provide clear pricing options only after root cause testing is complete.
You choose the repair path before any work begins.
Serving Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika & East Alabama
Same-day AC freeze-up service is available in Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika, and nearby East Alabama service areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
AC Freezing Up? Fast Diagnosis in Phenix City FAQ
Why does my AC keep freezing up?
Most freeze issues come from restricted airflow, low refrigerant, or blower/coil performance problems.
Should I keep running my AC if it is frozen?
No. Turn cooling off and run fan only to thaw, then schedule diagnosis.
Can a dirty filter cause AC icing?
Yes. Dirty filters reduce airflow and can drop coil temperature enough to freeze moisture.
How long should I thaw a frozen AC coil?
It can take several hours depending on ice buildup. Keep cooling off during thaw.
If ice comes back quickly, what does that mean?
Fast recurrence usually indicates a refrigerant or deeper airflow issue that needs professional testing.
Do you provide same-day AC freeze-up repair in Auburn?
Yes. Same-day service is common in Auburn and nearby areas.
Can frozen coils cause water leaks?
Yes. As ice melts, excess water can overflow if drainage is restricted or volume is high.
Will you check refrigerant leaks if needed?
Yes. We test refrigerant performance and repair leak sources when found.
Do you offer emergency cooling support?
Yes. 24/7 emergency service is available for urgent no-cooling and safety-related situations.
Will I get pricing before repair work?
Yes. We provide upfront options after diagnosis and before work begins.
Need help now?
24/7 emergency support and same-day diagnostics.
Call for fast local help. We diagnose first, explain your options clearly, and restore comfort as quickly as possible.
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We’re ready when you are.
Request service online or call now. We’ll follow up quickly to confirm details and scheduling.
24/7 emergency service available.