Guide
Ice on the lines, water on the floor
Two faults that turn up in St. Pete summers more than any others. Both start with switching the cooling off.
(727) 292-1764If you see ice
Ice on the copper line at the outdoor unit, or frost on the indoor coil, means the coil got colder than freezing. Air stopped moving across it, or refrigerant ran low.
Switch the thermostat from cool to off and set the fan to on. Air moving over the coil speeds the thaw. Expect water as it melts, so put towels around the indoor unit. Running a frozen system can push liquid back to the compressor.
Usual causes of a frozen coil
- A clogged filter starving the coil of air.
- Supply registers closed in too many rooms.
- A blower motor or capacitor that has slowed or stopped.
- Low refrigerant from a leak somewhere in the circuit.
Replacing a filter and opening registers are owner jobs. The last two need a technician.
If you see water
The indoor coil pulls water out of the air all summer. That water drips into a pan and leaves through a plastic drain line. When algae or debris blocks the line, the pan fills. A float switch, if fitted, shuts the system off; without one, water can reach the floor or a ceiling.
A safe first response to a drain leak
Power off
Turn the system off at the thermostat.
Contain it
Towels and a shallow tray under the drip.
Find the cleanout
Many drain lines have a capped tee near the unit.
Leave the rest
If water has reached wiring, or the pan is rusted through, wait for the contractor.
Questions homeowners ask
Why does the system shut off by itself after a leak?
That is usually the float switch doing its job. It will reset once the water drains, but the clog is still there.
Will a frozen coil damage the system?
Running it frozen can. Thawing it with the fan only is the safe step while you arrange a visit.
Talk it through with an independent contractor
Ring from St. Petersburg, Florida or a neighboring town and mention which rooms stay warm, what the thermostat reads and roughly how old the equipment is. Scope and price stay between you and that independent company.