Noticed ice forming on your air conditioner? While it might seem harmless—or even a little refreshing during a Sacramento heatwave—ice on your AC unit is a clear sign that something’s wrong. At Three Rivers Heating & Air, we’ve helped local homeowners stay cool and safe since 1981, and we know that ignoring ice buildup can lead to serious (and costly) HVAC issues.
Why Is Ice Forming on Your AC?
Ice buildup typically means your system is struggling to maintain proper airflow or refrigerant balance. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Restricted Airflow
If your system can’t breathe, it can’t function properly. Dirty air filters, blocked vents, or obstructed ductwork can all reduce airflow. When airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil can get too cold and freeze the condensation that naturally forms on it—leading to ice buildup.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Your AC relies on refrigerant to absorb and transfer heat. If refrigerant levels drop due to a leak or improper charge, the system can’t absorb enough heat, which causes the evaporator coil to freeze. This not only leads to ice but can also damage your compressor if left unresolved.
3. Faulty Blower Fan
A blower fan that's not running properly means air isn’t being circulated over the coils the way it should be. This can allow cold air to build up and freeze moisture on the coils, creating layers of ice and further restricting performance.
4. Thermostat or Electrical Issues
If your system is running longer than it should due to a malfunctioning thermostat or control board, it can cause overcooling and ice formation. An overworked system is more likely to break down unexpectedly.
Why Ice on Your AC is a Serious Problem
Ignoring the issue can cause:
Reduced cooling performance
Increased energy bills
Long-term damage to your compressor
Complete system breakdowns
Melting the ice may temporarily resolve the symptom, but it doesn’t address the root cause. That’s where Three Rivers Heating & Air comes in.
What You Should Do
Turn off your system to prevent further damage and call our licensed HVAC professionals at Three Rivers Heating & Air. Our team will inspect the unit, identify the underlying issue, and get your system back to running efficiently—without the ice.
We’ve been proudly serving Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, and Yuba Counties for over 40 years, and we know what it takes to keep your cooling system safe, efficient, and reliable in our hot, dry climate.
Seeing ice on your AC? Don’t wait—call (916) 516-1618 for fast, reliable help from your local HVAC experts.