The link between efficient heating and air duct cleaning may become more evident as the days get cooler. Duct cleaning is more than about reducing dust. It can improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency and performance. The duct cleaning professionals at Trio Heating & Air help achieve these results by removing contaminants and addressing issues that increase energy consumption and utility costs.

A Look at How Air Ducts Work

The potential to save energy is just one thing you need to know about duct cleaning, but it is a significant benefit. Before exploring this connection further, we’ll explain briefly how air ducts work.

When your heater switches on, the return vent draws in indoor air. This air travels through return ducts to a furnace or heat pump. Once it’s warmed, the air is moved to the supply air ducts. It then enters rooms via the supply vents.

The smoother the interior of a duct, the less friction that can slow the air. Dust, dirt, debris, microbial growth, and other contaminants can disrupt airflow when they accumulate on surfaces. This makes your HVAC system work harder and consume more energy.

How Air Duct Cleaning Yields More Efficient Heating

The dirt and debris in your ductwork are hidden. Since your ducts are concealed, you may not be aware of excessive buildup. However, your comfort may start to decline. But without a good look at your ducts, it’s hard to know the source of the issue. 

Staying warm is just one side of the story. There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning. Let’s look at this link by explaining how duct cleaning can have a positive impact on your heating system, home, and the environment:

Improve HVAC Unit Performance

In dirty ducts, friction slows the air, while excessive buildup can block airflow. Your heating unit will struggle if too little air reaches it. Duct cleaning restores airflow, which helps reduce the load on your heater. This optimizes efficiency because energy consumption is less than it otherwise would be. The unit also won’t run as frequently or turn on and off as often, which saves energy. It can operate at its rated energy efficiency level.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

If your air ducts are dirty, dust and other pollutants can spread throughout your home. Other than air filters, which mainly protect internal HVAC components, indoor air quality equipment is usually installed at the return duct. This only protects the system from one location. Most of your ductwork is unprotected. 

Poor indoor air quality and reduced heating efficiency have a positive correlation. If the air in your home is dusty or otherwise contaminated, your heating system is likely inefficient. Duct cleaning can address both as dirt can accumulate anywhere in your ductwork.

Limit the Insulating Effect of Contaminants

Contamination inside air ducts can act as an insulator. This restricts your HVAC system’s ability to transfer heat. It may generate sufficient warm air, but dirty ducts make it difficult to distribute this air. Regular duct cleaning can help optimize heat transfer, maintaining your thermal comfort.

Keep Your Heating System Efficient for the Long Term

Air duct cleaning can reduce strain on HVAC components. Without the excessive wear on fans, motors, etc., the entire system can last longer. You not only benefit from consistently lower energy bills. Clean ducts also help save on repair costs and avoid early system replacement. Therefore, you can save thousands in operating costs over the life of your heating unit.

Make Your Home More Sustainable

Environmental sustainability is another consideration with heating and air duct cleaning. The cleaner your ducts, the more efficient your HVAC system is, and the fewer greenhouse gas emissions it produces. This has a positive effect on the environment. You can achieve cost-effective heating and help contribute to a greener future. 

Should I Have My Air Ducts Cleaned?

If your home isn’t warm enough, have your air ducts checked. Schedule a duct cleaning if you see excessive dust or your air ducts are filled with cobwebs, dirt, or debris. Moldy ducts can also cause inefficiencies and indoor air quality issues, so don’t hesitate to call for help. Fiberglass ducts tend to collect more debris than metal ones. If your ductwork consists of fiberglass elements, consider checking it more frequently.

How Often Should I Schedule Air Duct Cleaning?

Air duct cleaning isn’t included in most annual service plans. It’s also not recommended as often as HVAC maintenance. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends it every three to five years. However, depending on your home (its cleanliness, occupancy, and general environment), more frequent duct cleaning may benefit you.

Can Duct Cleaning Alone Improve Efficiency?

Numerous factors influence your heating system’s efficiency. Duct cleaning allows an HVAC technician to check for other issues. If necessary, they can recommend and perform duct sealing to prevent conditioned air from escaping the system so it doesn’t work as hard. Insulating air ducts, particularly those in attics, crawlspaces, and other unconditioned spaces, can protect against temperature fluctuations and regulate the environment in your home.

Therefore, improving efficiency is a multi-faceted process. But you must start somewhere.
There’s a strong connection between efficient heating and air duct cleaning, so don’t forget about your ductwork.

Schedule Duct Cleaning with Trio Heating & Air

Our experienced duct cleaning contractors help residential customers throughout the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Whether your HVAC system’s performance or efficiency has declined, your home was recently renovated, or your ducts have never been cleaned, our team is ready to get to work. They can also provide duct sealing and repair as needed. Additionally, we provide air purifier installation and other indoor air quality services and can help install, maintain, and repair your heating system.

For more information or to schedule service, contact us or call (415) 599-1579.

A heater repair can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars, but there are ways to save and avoid draining your finances. Heating systems (and HVAC components in general) are complex. Fixing or replacing faulty blower motors, thermocouples, heat exchangers, capacitors, ignitors, and wiring requires materials and labor. Once there’s a problem, the expenses of heating repair are unavoidable. However, here are seven ways to protect your budget and the health of your heating system.

1. Do Not Attempt a DIY Fix

Some homeowners try to repair heaters themselves instead of hiring a professional. Whether your goal is to save money or simply show off your handiness, this doesn’t have any benefits. A DIY heater repair risks mistakes such as misdiagnosing the issue, purchasing the wrong part, or installing it incorrectly. 

The task might also require tools you don’t have. Plus, there’s a risk of damaging the unit or injuring yourself. Or, at the very least, you could void the warranty, so the cost of fixing the initial problem and any damage you cause must be paid for out of pocket. Therefore, DIY fixes are never a good idea. 

2. Promptly Address Any Heater Issues

If you postpone a heating repair, more serious and expensive issues can occur later. The unit may also break down and require early replacement. In an urgent situation, a heating contractor may charge two or three times their normal call-out fee. You can save money by calling them during business hours and when the situation is not dire.

Calling a professional as soon as possible can prevent big repairs, avoid an emergency, and extend the system’s lifespan. To avoid a heating emergency, call your local heater repair company when you notice the following signs of trouble:

• Increasing energy bills
• Dusty heating vents
• Malfunctioning pilot light
• Popping, squeaking, and other strange noises
• Longer heating times
• More frequent cycling
• Water leaking from the unit
• Your furnace appears worn out

3. Contact a Qualified Heating Contractor

Only a heating services contractor with the right qualifications should repair your furnace. If a repair tech does not have the proper experience, letting them service the unit can do more harm than good. They could make the situation worse. In this case, you must call the same company again or hire another contractor for additional repairs. To avoid unnecessary hassles and expenses:

• Read online reviews of heating contractors.
• Check their credentials before hiring a heating company.
• Contact friends and family members for recommendations.
• Ask a contractor questions about their experience.
• Get price quotes in writing before agreeing to any service.

4. Replace an Aging Heating Unit

If your old heating equipment is starting to show its age, planning a replacement can avoid spending money on emergency heating repairs. Older units also tend to need more frequent fixes. That means spending on parts, materials, and labor each time. Purchasing a new furnace and having it installed requires an initial investment. However, avoiding repeated repairs can be a more affordable option in the long term, especially when you consider energy savings and a new warranty.

5. Purchase a Home Warranty

A home warranty for heating repairs is an option if the manufacturer’s or dealer’s warranty doesn’t cover as much as you’d like. According to Forbes, a major home heater repair can cost $1,200 or more. That’s a big hit on the average homeowner’s budget. A home warranty that covers heating and other systems, such as plumbing and electrical, can help you avoid paying significant expenses. Some home warranties even cover appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, and more.

Purchasing a home warranty is beneficial if:

• You don’t know how old your heating system is.
• It’s unknown how long ago your appliances were installed. 
• The previous owners did not keep complete maintenance records.

Such a warranty makes financial sense if you continue using older systems and appliances. You can also ask your local heating contractor if the unit is still covered and, if not, what options they recommend.

6. Sign Up for Your Heating Contractor’s Maintenance Plan

Your local HVAC company may offer a warranty if you join its service plan. An extended parts and labor warranty can offer coverage into the later years of your heater’s life. Trio includes such a plan for the lifetime of your membership. Plus, you receive an annual heating system tune-up, discounts on repairs, and a guaranteed rapid response in an emergency. Our maintenance plan ensures your system gets the service it needs and that all records are accurate, which helps keep the warranty valid.

7. Schedule Annual Heater Maintenance

If your HVAC company doesn’t provide service reminders, keep a schedule for when to request preventative maintenance. It can avoid major heating repairs and ensure your system runs reliably and efficiently. Although a contractor may charge for some services, routine maintenance keeps expenses more predictable. 

The sooner minor issues are fixed, the less likely they’ll cause wear that creates systemwide problems. Therefore, you can save up to thousands of dollars over your heating system’s lifespan. This includes cost-savings both in repairs and longer intervals between equipment replacements.

We recommend scheduling heating maintenance in early fall to avoid service delays and higher costs during the busy season.

Call Trio for Professional Heating Repair and Maintenance

At Trio Heating & Air, we service heating and cooling systems in homes throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Our licensed and highly trained technicians can perform any type of heater repair. They also repair heaters of all types. Customer satisfaction is our top priority. We make sure you have reliable heating and your energy bills are kept in check. To request heating repair at reasonable prices and learn more ways to save, call (415) 223-5096 today.

You don’t usually need a professional for air duct filter replacement. Although it may be different than replacing an air handler or window AC filter, it’s just as important. And, the process takes just a few minutes. Regular air filter replacement can reduce energy bills, improve indoor air quality, and extend the life of your HVAC system. If you’re unfamiliar with this task, we’ll explain how it works.

How to Replace a Return Air Duct Filter

A filter may be located in the return air vent or somewhere in the return duct. It ensures the air drawn from rooms is free of particulates by the time it reaches your furnace or air handler. Fortunately, replacing it isn’t complicated and does not require a professional. Follow these steps to remove the old air filter and install a new one:

1. Turn off your HVAC unit to prevent dust and dirt from contaminating the system.
2. Open the vent (to access a filter installed near the return vent).
3. Unhook the latch to release the drawer housing the filter (if the filter is inside the duct).
4. Remove the old filter from the frame and discard it.
5. Note the size of the filter on the side.
6. If the size isn’t listed, measure the filter carefully or consult your HVAC system’s owner’s manual.

Once you have the new filter, insert it into the same location as the old one. Its arrow must point in the direction of the airflow (or toward the furnace). With the filter in place, close the drawer and secure the latch.

However, before you install the filter, it’s a good idea to wipe the area with a microfiber cloth. Otherwise, dirt can blow into the system or clog up the new filter. To remove dust between the grill slats, you can wrap the cloth around the tip of a flathead screwdriver. Gently move the screwdriver along each slat to clean it. You can also use a brush attachment to vacuum the cover.

In addition to replacing the return air duct filter, filters in the air handler cabinet, furnace, and other parts of your HVAC system should be properly maintained.

When to Change Your Air Filter

Some air filters are rated for 30 days and others for 90 days. Media filters are thicker and, depending on the type, can last six to 12 months. Replace the filter as suggested by the manufacturer. You can write the date on your calendar when the filter was installed. Setting an alert on your phone can also remind you when to change it. 

However, air duct filter replacement can be performed sooner than suggested if you notice any of the following issues:

• A Lack of Air Circulation: The filter may be clogged, restricting the amount of airflow in your home. This also affects temperature control and distribution.
• Air Conditioner Leakage: The flow of warm air into the system is restricted, preventing the evaporator coil from absorbing heat. It can then freeze; as the ice thaws, water can leak from your AC system into your home.
• Rising Energy Bills: A clogged filter forces the blower fan and other components to work harder, increasing energy consumption. As a result, your electric bills go up.

A central air conditioning system is designed to work with a certain amount of air. Blocked airflow causes components to work harder to compensate. This accelerates wear and tear, so major repairs become more common and your heating and cooling system can fail sooner than expected.

Reasons to Hire a Contractor for Air Duct Filter Replacement

Most people can replace an air duct filter on their own. However, you may consider hiring a local HVAC contractor in some circumstances. These are a few reasons to call a professional and schedule service:

• Frozen Evaporator Coil: The coil can freeze for a few reasons, including low refrigerant, and ice can easily damage it. A technician can thoroughly inspect and test the system to determine why the evaporator coil keeps freezing and if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
• Utility Bills Are Still High: If your energy bill remains high or continues to increase even with regular filter replacements, call for help. Numerous HVAC issues can cause decreased energy efficiency. This is often the first sign of a developing problem.
• It’s Time for Maintenance: We recommend maintenance at least annually; however, your AC should be checked in the spring and furnace in the fall. If your system is due for maintenance and it’s time for air duct filter replacement, request an appointment so a technician can help you.
• Sizing a New Filter: While a Manual J calculation determines the right-sized AC or heater, a Manual D calculation helps size ductwork and can help in selecting a larger filter. Choosing the ideal filter can optimize airflow and system performance. However, the system may also need improvements, such as a larger plenum box.
• You Have a Commercial HVAC System: Commercial HVAC systems use different sizes and types of filters than residential units. Replacing them can be challenging. These filters are often held in place by special brackets and a gasket. Therefore, air duct filter replacement requires knowledge of these components to ensure air is filtered properly and the system works as designed.

Replacing a Duct Filter: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If your home has an air duct filter, you can most often replace it yourself. There’s no need for a professional unless it’s time for maintenance or you suspect an HVAC system issue. You can also call a pro if you’re considering a larger, more efficient filter. They can help choose the appropriate type and model, and determine if other updates are needed. A professional should always replace air duct filters in a commercial HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

An HVAC filter must be replaced regularly. Neglecting to change one (and poor maintenance in general) can reduce efficiency, performance, and indoor air quality. Our licensed contractors can help with air duct filter replacement, air duct cleaning, and other indoor air quality services. We provide a customized approach for each home and find effective, high-efficiency solutions. To request service, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

Replacing attic insulation may not be on your bucket list, but it can have many benefits. Aging insulating materials, or a lack of insulation, may cause inefficiencies throughout your home. That’s because heat rises and can escape from the roof. However, attic insulation not only prevents heat loss in winter, it can also prevent heat gain in the summer. To explore the many advantages, we’ll look at when and why you should replace attic insulation.

1. Less Costly Utility Bills
2. More Stable Room Temperatures
3. Improved Indoor Air Quality
4. A Higher Level of Comfort
5. Reduced HVAC Wear and Tear
6. Additional Living Space
7. Increased Roof Lifespan
8. Avoid Frozen Pipes
9. Sound-Proofing
10. Deterrence of Pests
11. Increased Property Value
12. You Can Protect the Environment

How Do I Know If My Attic Insulation Should Be Replaced?

Various issues may not immediately point to an insulation problem. Others can spark concerns about whether your attic is properly insulated. The following warning signs should get you to consider hiring a professional to assess your attic insulation:

• Drafts in higher parts of your home
• Pet infestations in the attic
• Condensation or leaks in the attic
• Temperature variations throughout your home
• Visibly damaged insulation
• The insulating material is moldy
• The material isn’t thick enough

In any of these situations, a contractor can recommend how to proceed and start planning an attic insulation project.

How Can Replacing Attic Insulation Help?

Once you replace attic insulation in your home, here are some benefits you can achieve:

1. Less Costly Utility Bills

Old, outdated, or too little insulation can cause significant heat loss, which translates to increased energy usage and higher utility bills. New attic insulation can minimize this heat loss. Therefore, your monthly energy bills may be lower. Depending on your type of HVAC system, how you use it, and the design of your home, you could see significant savings. The difference in heating costs is noticeable for most homeowners.

2. More Stable Room Temperatures

A poorly insulated attic can affect temperature control throughout your home. Replacing the insulation can stabilize room temperatures and reduce the effects of outdoor weather conditions. This means you won’t need to adjust the thermostat as often. Your home will also be more energy efficient.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Outdoor pollution can enter through holes, tears, and gaps in insulation. However, replacing attic insulation can prevent this. Higher-quality materials can block dust, dirt, mold, smoke, and other contaminants that can cause irritation, allergies, asthma attacks, and illnesses. A properly insulated attic can result in a cleaner indoor environment, making it easier to breathe, sleep, and relax.

4. A Higher Level of Comfort

Outdated, worn, or missing insulation can be why some rooms are colder or others don’t get warm enough. Replacing attic insulation can improve your comfort, even if the attic isn’t your usual hangout. More even temperatures, less indoor air pollution, and fewer drafts minimize discomfort. Therefore, your home can be a more pleasant environment where you can be productive and enjoy time with family and friends.

5. Reduced HVAC Wear and Tear

Insulation issues can cause your HVAC system to run longer and work harder to maintain set temperatures. Therefore, wear and tear can lead to costly repairs and shorten the system’s lifespan. A well-insulated attic, along with proper AC and heater maintenance, can help your HVAC system last for 20 years or more. You can also save on the cost of equipment repairs during that time.

6. Additional Living Space

A hot or cold attic can affect your entire home. However, the attic may still seem like a convenient storage space. But it can be so much more than that. Once you replace attic insulation, the space can become as habitable as any other room. It can be used as a bedroom, home office, library, gym, game room, or playroom. A usable attic can also be a selling point if you put your home on the market.

7. Increased Roof Lifespan

New attic insulation can improve the health of your roof. Replacing a roof can cost well over $20,000. Repairing major damage can cost $10,000. However, installing insulation is a smaller investment that can prevent water damage to roof materials. It can also prevent mold, mildew, and wood rot. 

Simply keeping your attic cooler can avoid these problems. Another benefit of insulation is it can prevent ice damming. Ice dams form when warm air rises and melts snow on the roof. Water then flows down to cooler areas and refreezes, which can damage shingles and other materials, ultimately leading to water leaks inside. High-quality insulation stops heat from escaping so ice dams are less likely.

8. Avoid Frozen Pipes

Pipes can easily freeze during a winter cold snap. By increasing the temperature inside walls, insulation helps the water inside pipes stay liquid. Therefore, it can prevent burst pipes and also help conserve hot water and the energy needed to produce it. Heat loss is minimized and you won’t have to keep setting the water heater temperature higher.

9. Sound-Proofing

Replacing attic insulation with sound-dampening materials can block noise from outside. Whether a neighbor’s dog barks often, there’s heavy traffic outside, or a heavy rainstorm is occurring, your home can still be quiet. Sound-proofing insulation can also reduce noise from inside your house, such as from plumbing or home entertainment systems.

10. Deterrence of Pests

Mice, squirrels, insects, and other pests are good at finding entry points and settling or traveling through spaces in walls. A well-insulated space can keep them out. Conversely, old, deteriorating insulation provides shelter. Rodents and insects can nest in old insulation, and their droppings can cause health hazards. If your attic insulation is 15 years old or more, consider replacing or updating it to keep pests away.

11. Increased Property Value

As mentioned earlier in this article, these benefits can help make your home more valuable. An insulated attic is a strong selling point. Potential buyers may pay more if they don’t have to replace attic insulation or invest in other home improvements. Therefore, insulating your attic can be a good idea if you’re planning to sell your home (and even if you aren’t).

12. You Can Protect the Environment

Attic insulation helps reduce energy consumption. This shrinks your home’s carbon footprint. Fewer carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide emissions make your residence more eco-friendly. 

Replacing attic insulation not only improves indoor air quality. It also contributes less environmental pollution and can reduce the demand for power plants, so there can be fewer emissions overall. In addition, many types of insulation contain recycled materials, so you also contribute to decreased waste and raw materials consumption.

Trio Heating & Air Helps Replace Attic Insulation

Homeowners in Santa Clara County and San Mateo County trust us for high-quality, professional insulation installation services. Our contractors provide solutions that fit the needs of your home. From thorough evaluations to selecting materials to upfront pricing, we help you make an informed decision. Our goal is to find the right insulation and install it with precision, which helps lower your overall costs. We also provide rebates so you see immediate cost savings. Contact us or call (415) 223-1647 to request a free estimate.

Over time, your air conditioner undergoes wear and tear that can result in issues such as clogged filters, broken components, and loose connections. These problems strain your cooling system, causing it to use more energy than before. You may notice your energy bills begin to increase, airflow reduction, and inadequate cooling throughout your home.

Addressing these problems reduces the strain and returns your system to its regular function, leading to decreased energy usage through optimized energy efficiency. Keep reading to learn more about the issues that affect your system’s efficiency and the benefits of  AC repair.

Common AC Issues That Reduce Efficiency 

While almost all damages or malfunctions can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, some issues make more of an impact than others, including: 

• Dirty filters: A clogged filter reduces your unit's airflow, making it work harder to produce the same results.
• A damaged fan motor: The blower fan moves air over the evaporator coil. When it breaks or malfunctions, it uses excessive energy to circulate air through the system.
• Frozen coils: A frozen evaporator coil cannot effectively remove heat. To compensate, the system goes into overdrive, using excess energy.
• Leaking ducts: Your duct system distributes cool air throughout your home. If it has a hole, crack, tear, or other damage, it won’t be able to do its job efficiently.
• Broken thermostat: A faulty thermostat may cause your system to short cycle, resulting in increased energy usage and improper cooling. 

Signs Your AC Requires Repair

It’s essential to catch AC repairs quickly to prevent the problems from progressing and reduce energy waste. The top signs of a damaged AC include the following:

• Warm air blowing from the unit
• Insufficient airflow
• The system produces foul odors
• Strange noises, such as buzzing, humming, or banging
• Water leaks or moisture near the AC
• Rising energy bills

If you notice any of the above issues, contact a reputable professional as soon as possible. They’ll diagnose the problem and outline the recommended steps to repair it. If your system is over ten years old or constantly in need of repair, it can be more cost-effective to replace it. Installing a new high-efficiency system will reduce your repair bills, cut down your energy usage, and improve the comfort of your home.

The Benefits of AC Repairs for Energy Efficiency

When you address AC repairs, you’ll significantly enhance the efficiency of your system. By reducing the strain and allowing it to operate efficiently, you’ll see various benefits, including:

• Reduced energy consumption: A broken system has to work harder to achieve the same results, resulting in increased energy usage. By repairing these issues, your unit will use less power, operate smoothly, and keep your home cool.
• Extended lifespan: Keeping up with regular repairs and maintenance prevents minor problems from progressing and causing significant damage, increasing the lifespan of your AC unit.
• Improved home comfort: When your system works properly, you won’t have to worry about uneven temperatures or inadequate airflow. Your home will feel comfortable on even the hottest days, and your air conditioner will use less power to cool it 

AC Maintenance and Energy Savings

Scheduling professional AC maintenance at least once yearly is one of the best ways to improve HVAC efficiency. During the appointment, a technician will complete a full inspection, cleaning, and tune-up of your system to ensure it’s in top condition. They’ll complete tasks such as:

• Replacing the filter
• Cleaning the coils
• Inspecting and sealing ducts
• Calibrating the thermostat
• Checking refrigerant levels

By taking these steps, you’ll be able to identify issues before they progress and ensure all components work correctly. This will reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve operating efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills, a lower environmental impact, and an extended lifespan for your system. 

Call Trio for Expert AC Services in Northern California!

If you want to improve your air conditioner’s energy efficiency, contact our team at Trio Heating & Air. We proudly offer comprehensive air conditioning services in San Francisco and surrounding areas. Whether your air conditioner shows signs of malfunction, is due for maintenance, or is ready for an upgrade, we can help. 

Call us or book online to schedule your service today. With years of experience and extensive training, our technicians will help improve your unit's efficiency and give you expert energy-saving AC tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I schedule AC repairs or maintenance for optimal efficiency?

You should schedule AC maintenance at least once per year to ensure proper system function. If you notice a problem with your unit between maintenance visits, contact us as soon as possible for emergency repair in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The faster you fix the issue, the less likely it is to progress and cause further damage to your unit. 

Do AC units lose efficiency over time?

Your air conditioner will slowly lose efficiency over time as it undergoes wear and tear. If it is over ten years old, consider replacing it with a new, high-efficiency model. Contact our team to discuss your replacement options, and we’ll help you find the best unit that fits your needs and budget.

Is it more energy-efficient to leave my air conditioner on all day?

Leaving your air conditioner on all day will use more energy than cycling it on and off. It’s best to set the thermostat to your desired temperature and allow it to shut off automatically. You can also save energy by turning the unit off when you’re not home or during cool periods like nighttime.

Imagine you’re in the middle of a summer heat wave in the San Francisco Bay Area. Temperatures have hit over 100 degrees, and your air conditioner has stopped working. When you open it up, you’re surprised to find ice inside. 

If your AC unit is freezing up, don’t panic! This is a common problem many households deal with at some point. There are a few reasons ice forms inside an air conditioner. Some are quick fixes, while others require a more in-depth AC repair call.

Trio Heating and Air offers emergency AC repair and other HVAC repair services. We’ll be there as soon as possible to assess the situation and fix the cause of your frozen AC. Read on to learn more about freezing AC units and when to call a professional for help.

Why Is My AC Unit Freezing Up?

To understand why an air conditioner freezes, you first need to know how an AC works. Air conditioners collect heat and humidity from your house and transfer it outside. It’s a process based on the principle that certain gasses change temperature when compressed and expanded.

Your AC has several components, including a fan, compressor, refrigerant liquid, evaporator coil, and condenser coil. These work together to blow indoor air across a cold evaporator coil, which cools the air. Hot evaporated air is sent outside to the condenser, while colder air is sent back into the house. 

The process requires good airflow and the right amount of refrigerant. If either of these is compromised, the temperatures near the condenser coil or evaporator drop drastically, causing water vapor inside the air conditioner to freeze. Without appropriate airflow and refrigerant levels, your AC freezes up.

Some of the most common air conditioner freezing causes include: 

• Mechanical failures: A failing fan motor, broken valves, or bad wiring may cause ice to form inside the AC, leading to further damage.
• Dirty evaporator coil: Evaporator coils become covered in dirt, hair, and other household debris. This eventually blocks airflow inside the AC, causing the coil to freeze. 
• Clogged condenser coil: Your AC's outdoor portion should be kept free of leaves, grass, and dirt. A dirty condenser coil reduces the ability for warm air to blow through the evaporator coil, which stops the refrigerant from becoming warm gas. Instead, it freezes inside the AC.
• Low refrigerant: Pinhole leaks or improper refrigerant charging usually result in low pressure in the coils, which lowers the refrigerant temperature. The temperature gets cold enough to freeze any moisture in the air and causes ice buildup.

Can a Dirty Air Filter Cause My AC to Freeze?

Yes. A dirty air filter restricts the airflow in your air conditioner. It’s one of the most common reasons for ice buildup. 

The evaporator coil needs a healthy air flow to absorb heat from the air blowing through your AC. When this warm air becomes restricted, the coil freezes. The good news is you don’t necessarily need an AC repair person to check your filters. If you like DIY projects, changing your AC filter is a job you can handle yourself.

What Should I Do if My Air Conditioner Freezes Up? 

If you see ice in your air conditioner or it isn’t working as well as it used to, contact Trio. We’re your local experts in all AC services, with experienced technicians who can quickly locate and fix the problem. 

It’s best to call a pro as soon as you notice an issue rather than wait for the ice to build up. Your AC will continue to freeze until the unit is completely encased, stopping the coil from absorbing any heat. This prevents your AC from working properly and may cause it to overwork until it burns out completely.

Trust your local AC repair specialists at Trio to get your AC back in good working order and prevent further damage. 

How Can I Prevent My AC From Freezing Up? 

Here are some simple tasks you can do to prevent a residential AC repair call for a frozen AC.

Change your filters regularly 

The frequency of your AC filter changes will depend on how often you use the AC and the amount of dust and particulates in the air. We recommend changing the filter at least once every three to six months. 

Schedule regular professional maintenance

Have an expert give your air conditioner a full once-over to make sure it’s in good working order. Schedule an annual AC maintenance call with Trio, and we’ll give your AC a full inspection, test all the components, clean and lubricate moving parts, and take care of small repairs.

Know the signs of refrigerant issues and take action quickly

Some signs you have a refrigerant problem include:

• Longer cooling cycles
• High electric bills
• Hissing sounds 
• AC isn’t cooling the room 
• An exhaust smell

If you notice any of these signs, call Trio today. We’ll schedule a service call to charge your refrigerant. 

Contact Trio Heating and Air Today

Trio Heating and Air Conditioning is your local California AC service center. We offer air conditioning and central air repair, AC maintenance, and AC installations to Greater San Francisco Bay Area residents. 

If you’re curious about our energy-efficient ACs or want to schedule routine maintenance for your older HVAC system, we’re here to deliver top-tier solutions for all your needs. 

We respond quickly to service requests, use only the best products, and guarantee the highest quality work. Trust us to treat you with respect and take care of your home. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or book a service appointment.