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, Air & Plumbing 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, Air & Plumbing Today

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing 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. 

Signs you need thermostat repair can be hard to distinguish from other HVAC problems. Others are more symptomatic of a controller issue. If your heating or cooling system isn’t working properly, it’s not always because a major component has failed. Fortunately, thermostat services such as repair or replacement are relatively simple and inexpensive.

1.  The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop

2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On

3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle

4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home

5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates

6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond

7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond

8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match

9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost

Has My Thermostat Gone Bad?

Thermostats remain reliable for only a finite amount of time. Eventually, they wear out and parts can go bad. Call a professional if you notice the following signs you might need thermostat repair:

1. The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop

A thermostat problem can manifest as an issue with HVAC system performance. Faulty thermostat wiring or a miscalibration can prevent signals from reaching the system. Or, incorrect signals can be sent. 

Therefore, an AC unit or furnace may not shut off when the set temperature is reached. If your HVAC system has been running constantly, switch the thermostat off. If it continues to run, the switch may have a mechanical defect, or the thermostat wiring has gone bad.

2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On

The thermostat signals the system when to run. If your air conditioning or heating unit won’t turn on, the electrical wiring that lets the controller communicate with the system has probably failed. An HVAC unit cannot function if it doesn’t receive messages from the thermostat. If the system stops running, switch the mode (cooling to heating or heating to cooling). It should turn on; if not, you likely need a thermostat repair.

3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle

Short cycling can be a sign of various problems. A failing thermostat is one of them. If not fixed, the issue can prevent your home from reaching or staying at a comfortable temperature. Aside from discomfort, it can cause your HVAC system to use more electricity and cause components to wear out more quickly. Therefore, energy and repair costs can both increase.

4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home

If your HVAC system is working properly, the temperature from room to room should be about the same. However, a thermostat problem can cause your AC or heater to run irregularly. This prevents rooms farthest away from getting enough cooled or heated air. Temperatures should only differ significantly if you have a zoned HVAC system that lets you program a different temperature for each room.

5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates

Another sign your thermostat isn’t working correctly is if the temperature keeps shifting. This can cause erratic temperature fluctuations in your home. Thermostat repair can restore comfort if no other issues are found with your HVAC system.

6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond

Moving switches and pressing buttons should get your thermostat to work. There should be a subtle clicking sound and the system should turn on within a minute. An unresponsive thermostat is a common problem. It can often be resolved by changing the batteries and resetting the unit. If nothing more serious is wrong, this should resolve the issue immediately. If not, your thermostat likely has bad wiring. 

7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond

The thermostat’s screen should light up when you use its controls. If it is dead or dark, new batteries may be needed. A serious mechanical or electrical malfunction is also possible. Modern thermostats are more complex; more sophisticated interfaces provide more functionality but increase the potential for component issues or software glitches.

8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match

Some thermostats display the actual and set temperatures (if yours doesn’t, use a thermometer to compare the reading to the room temperature). The two should match soon after the system turns on. If the readings never match or your home is too warm or too cool, contact a thermostat repair professional. They can check the unit and recommend whether to repair or replace the unit. 

9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost

A programmable thermostat should recall its temperature settings from day to day. They should stay programmed until you change them. If scheduled settings suddenly stop working, your thermostat may be malfunctioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should a Thermostat Last?

The average lifespan of a thermostat is 10 years. Some can last longer than that. However, various factors can cause a thermostat to fail sooner, including power surges, increased wear, or corrosion. Old age is a common cause of thermostat failure. If the unit has reached the end of its life, the only option is to replace it.

Our tips for avoiding thermostat repair can save on costs throughout the unit’s lifespan and maintain optimal temperature control.

How Do I Troubleshoot My Thermostat?

Troubleshooting a thermostat is simple. If it isn’t working properly, try the following steps:

• Verify the unit is on the proper setting; if not, change and adjust the thermostat.
• Don’t only leave the thermostat “On”; the system will run continuously, so make sure to turn on the “Heat” or “Cool” setting.
• Turn the temperature up 5℉ in winter or down 5℉ in summer; air should start blowing from the vents.
• Change the batteries at least once a year; doing so in the spring can help you remember and prevent unexpected failures.
• Clean dust and debris from the thermostat; use a small brush and dry cloth and never get water under the cover.
• Schedule regular maintenance; a technician should test wiring connections to detect any problems early.

Is Thermostat Repair Expensive?

According to HomeAdvisor, thermostat repair can range from $50 to $500, while most people spend between $114 and $315. Pricing can vary depending on the model, what’s wrong with it, and whether it’s under warranty.

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing Today

We provide thermostat repair and installation for homeowners throughout Santa Clara County and San Mateo County. Our technicians are trained to fix or replace all types of thermostats, including manual, programmable, and digital models. To request prompt thermostat, air conditioning, or heating services from TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing , book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5615 today.

We just hit over 300 reviews on Thumbtack!! 📌 Thank you so much to everyone who has ever left a positive review for us on Thumbtack or any other website! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We really value your feedback and want to make sure we're providing 5-star service to every customer! 🙌

If you would like to leave your own positive review on Thumbtack, please do so here: https://bit.ly/4eXLqE7

At TRIO, we’re committed to positively impacting our society every step of the way. Until now, we have relied on gas-powered vans for our technicians, but now TRIO is proud to be one of the leading HVAC companies with an entire fleet of Tesla vehicles, including the new Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model X vehicles!⚡💯

Investing in an all-electric vehicle service fleet will allow us to align with our mission of positively impacting the environment, along with our mission to plant a tree for every job we complete. 💪

Although San Jose, CA, experiences all four seasons, its generally dry climate means warmer average year-round temperatures than many other parts of the country. If you live in San Jose or the surrounding areas, having adequate insulation is worth the investment, as it helps to lower your monthly energy bills by keeping your home comfortably cool in summer and warm in winter. Many factors play a role in the cost of insulation installation. The experts at TRIO Heating, Air, and Plumbing have some helpful information regarding what affects the cost of insulation installation services, which options are most cost-effective, signs it’s time to replace your insulation, and more.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Insulation Installation?

So, how much does insulation cost, and what determines the total price? Several factors determine what your specific insulation installation will cost you.

Material

The insulation cost per sq. ft. largely depends on the material used for residential insulation. Traditional fiberglass insulation costs approximately $0.40 to $1.50 per square foot, while cellulose insulation costs between $0.60 and $2.30 per square foot, on average. More expensive materials like polystyrene may cost between $1.00 and $15.00 per square foot.

Location

The location where your new insulation is installed also impacts the total price. For example, insulating a two-car garage or basement costs much less than insulating an attic, which typically requires twice as much insulation for adequate protection. Insulating larger residential spaces requires more labor and material, which also increases the price of installation.

Labor

Labor should also be factored in when looking at how much to insulate a house. The type of insulation, equipment used, and the installation method can all impact labor costs. Accessibility is also a factor, as areas that are much more difficult to access often require more labor to complete the job.

Site Prep

Preparing the work site may also add more to the cost of insulation installation. Drywall may need to be removed or repaired, windows and other surfaces may need to be covered, and old, moldy insulation may need to be abated. Other tasks may include verifying that the walls are properly framed and enclosed, and inspecting electrical wiring for any issues.

Average Cost to Insulate a Home in the Bay Area

The average cost to install energy-efficient insulation in the Bay Area varies based on total square footage, insulation type, labor, and more. Costs are lower if you’re getting insulation while your home is being built because accessing hard-to-reach areas (like behind walls) is much easier and less labor-intensive than having to perform tasks like removing and replacing drywall in existing homes. Contact us for a free quote to get a better idea of the cost of TRIO insulation services.

Comparing Insulation Types and Their Price Points

Each type of insulation has a different price point. Here are some of the most common forms and their average cost:

• Batts and rolls: Made of fiberglass, cotton, mineral wool, or plastic, roll or batt insulation style costs between $0.65 and $2.00 per square foot and can easily fit between wall studs, rafters, and joists.
• Blown-in: Typically made of fiberglass, this type of insulation is blown into the space using a special machine and costs an average of between $1.65 and $3.80 per square foot.
• Foam board: Best suited for residential exterior areas and basement floors, foam board insulation costs approximately $2.40 to $3.75 per square foot.
• Spray foam: This liquid polyurethane insulation costs between $3.15 and $7.50 per square foot and is sprayed into wall cavities, where it expands and hardens into a solid foam.

Blown-In vs. Batt Insulation: Which Is More Cost-Effective?

When considering whether blown-in or batt insulation is more cost-effective, batt insulation typically has a lower upfront cost. The per-square-foot cost of batt-style insulation is around $0.65 to $2.00, while blown-in costs around $1.65 to $3.80.

Although batt insulation is cheaper, blown-in insulation provides better long-term energy savings that offset the upfront cost, thanks to its superior coverage. Installing batt insulation is easier if you’re planning to tackle the job DIY, but blown-in insulation is a better choice if you need effective, long-lasting insulation that needs to be installed in tight or hard-to-reach areas.

Attic Insulation Cost Breakdown

The attic is the most important part of a home that requires quality insulation. Here’s a breakdown of an average attic insulation cost:

• New vs replacement: Installing insulation in a brand-new home costs less than removing and replacing old insulation because it doesn’t require as much labor or additional materials.
• Attic size: An 800 sq. ft. attic costs around $800 to $4,000 to insulate, while a 1,500 sq. ft. attic costs between $1,500 and $8,000, on average.
• Material and types: Fiberglass costs less than $2.00 per sq. ft., while spray foam can cost up to $15 per sq. ft. installed.
• Labor: Removing old or moldy insulation, or difficult access, increases costs.

Crawl Space Insulation Costs Explained

• Material costs: Fiberglass batts are the most affordable. Spray foam and rigid foam board are pricier.
• Crawl space size: Larger crawl spaces mean more material and labor costs.
• Moisture control: Adding vapor barriers, sealing, or a dehumidifier increases cost but improves effectiveness.

How to Estimate Your Home's Insulation Needs

• Step one: Find your climate zone and check the recommended R-value for each part of the home.
• Step two: Measure and calculate square footage of the space needing insulation.
• Step three: Check if you have existing insulation and assess its condition.
• Step four: Check for air leaks using the dollar-bill test at doors/windows.
• Step five: Divide the square footage by the coverage per unit of the insulation material for a rough estimate.

Why Proper Insulation Saves You Money Long-Term

Although certain types of insulation may cost a lot of money upfront, having the best insulation possible saves you money long-term. Higher quality insulation results in lower monthly utility costs, helping you recoup the installation cost and save over time.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Insulation

Your insulation should be inspected every few years and may lose effectiveness after 15–20 years. Signs you may need new insulation include uneven temperatures, condensation, high energy bills, drafts, or frozen pipes.

Get a Free Insulation Quote from TRIO

TRIO Heating, Air, and Plumbing installs home attic, crawl space, and other insulation per California’s latest requirements and recommendations. Our trained technicians remove damaged insulation and perform inspections. To request a free insulation quote for your San Jose or Greater Bay Area home, contact us today!

Mistakes in AC repair and maintenance can damage the system in addition to normal wear and tear. One error or misjudgment can lead to costly problems or an early system replacement. Therefore, a qualified professional must handle any air conditioning repair (aside from changing the air filter or simple cleaning). Not calling for help when necessary, mishandling the system, or improperly maintaining it can lead to substantial damage. 

• Forgetting to Change the Filter
• Installing the Wrong Filter
• Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly
• Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making
• Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly
• Cutting an Electrical Wire
• Installing the Wrong Parts
• Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered
• Waiting Too Long to Call for Help
• Not Following Safety Precautions
• Attempting a DIY AC Repair
• Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Avoiding these common mistakes can protect your AC system and household budget:

1. Forgetting to Change the Filter

Changing the filter regularly is the golden rule of air conditioner maintenance. Replacing it every three months or more frequently can prevent costly AC repairs. Set reminders to check the filter. If it becomes clogged with dirt, your entire HVAC system works harder to achieve the desired air temperature, increasing utility costs and straining already hard-working components.

2. Installing the Wrong Filter

As every AC professional agrees, replacing the air filter is the easiest and most important way to care for your air conditioner. However, the filter must be the right type and size for your system. Its length and width must fit the space exactly; for some units, the thickness of the filter must meet exact specifications. Otherwise, it may decrease performance or cause permanent damage.

3. Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly

No matter who services your air conditioner, the underlying problem must be properly identified before it’s repaired. Experienced professionals have the tools to diagnose a wide range of issues. For example, leak detectors can identify damage to a coil, while voltage testers can help find a faulty electrical component. Attempting repairs without a proper diagnosis can result in overlooking the root cause of the problem. Or, the repair may ultimately be ineffective. In either case, there’s a high risk of additional damage.

4. Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making

Loud noises don’t just happen normally as your AC is running. You or anyone servicing the unit must take these seriously. Unusual noises are a telltale sign of a problem. Ignoring them can allow an issue to escalate until there’s major damage, such as a failed blower or a burnt-out compressor. Safety hazards such as a refrigerant leak or a short circuit are also possible. 

Therefore, call a local HVAC contractor if you hear the following from your AC:

• Rattling
• Squealing
• Shrieking
• Banging
• Hissing
• Whistling
• Bubbling
• Grinding
• Humming

5. Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly

Working with an AC’s electrical components requires extensive knowledge and training. Not every AC repair technician is equipped to handle electrical issues. Attempting an electrical repair without expertise is highly dangerous. Aside from the potential for a shock, burn, or electrocution, it also risks causing extensive damage to your air conditioning system. For example, a mistake fixing faulty wiring or a capacitor can trigger a surge that shorts out major components. It can also lead to an electrical fire.

6. Cutting an Electrical Wire

Touching a live electrical part without protection, not turning off the system, or installing an electrical component incorrectly is bad enough. However, a far too common issue is cutting an electrical wire. This may seem appropriate if something isn’t working; just cut a wire, splice it back together, or replace it. 

But it’s not this simple. Your AC system has many wires and connections. Whether you cut one during repairs or by accident while trimming hedges or mowing your lawn, the results can be bad. The effects can range from reduced cooling capacity to your AC being unable to turn on. Hiring a professional is the best way to avoid wiring mistakes. They can also install and wrap wires to ensure they’re stable, protected, and unlikely to be accidentally cut.

7. Installing the Wrong Parts

Every part installed or replaced in your AC is specific to the make and model. If the wrong part is installed, it may be incompatible with the system. Your AC may not work at all, be damaged in the process, or wear out at an increased rate. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for selecting parts and hire a professional familiar with your type of system. Some ACs may also require specific tools to complete certain repair tasks.

8. Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered

Some people cover their outdoor condenser unit to protect it and avoid repairs. However, this can have the opposite effect. Outdoor units are typically built to withstand extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Don’t cover the entire unit while it’s running. The covering can disrupt airflow, overworking the unit. Or, its materials may be sucked into the machine, so you may need a major AC repair before you know it.

9. Waiting Too Long to Call for Help

Call a professional as soon as your AC:

• Doesn’t provide as much cooling
• Fails to provide consistent temperatures
• Makes strange noises it never did before
• Emits unusual odors
• Blows less air from the vents
• Has increased condensation or a small leak

Homeowners often wait too long once they notice these symptoms. But the longer you wait, the more damage can occur. Your safety may also be at risk. Therefore, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue before it gets worse.

10. Not Following Safety Precautions

An AC repair comes with many hazards. One reason to call a professional is that they know the risks and how to mitigate them. They wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and insulated shoes to protect themselves from harm. Other safety precautions include turning off the power while working on a system and following industry guidelines for handling, charging, and disposing of refrigerant.

11. Attempting a DIY AC Repair

Never attempt to fix your air conditioning system yourself. Other than changing filters and cleaning the outside of units, DIY repairs are far too risky. Aside from the safety hazards, there’s the chance of causing damage that requires expensive repairs. You’ll pay out-of-pocket for these if a DIY repair voids the warranty. Therefore, always call a licensed professional to diagnose and repair your AC System.

12. Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Another big AC repair mistake is neglecting to schedule regular maintenance. It can lead to reduced cooling performance, higher energy bills, and safety hazards. Basic professional maintenance tasks like cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and measuring refrigerant levels can make a big difference. During annual maintenance, a technician can also make minor repairs to prevent larger problems that may shorten your air conditioner’s lifespan.

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Repair and Maintenance

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing provides top-notch HVAC services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Committed to customer satisfaction, we provide any type of AC repair and ensure you have cool air during the warmer months. Our team gets the job done right, whether it involves a simple tune-up or replacing a major component. To schedule air conditioning services in your home, call (415) 223-1647 today.