If you’ve ever walked past your AC unit and noticed a buildup of ice, you might be tempted to brush it off—especially if the air inside your home still feels cool. But ice on your air conditioner is never a good sign. At Big Horn Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen firsthand how ignoring this seemingly minor issue can lead to costly repairs or even full system replacement for homeowners in Cody, WY and the surrounding Big Horn Basin region.
Let’s take a closer look at why your air conditioner might be icing over—and why it's crucial to act quickly.
What Causes Ice to Form on Your AC?
Ice buildup on an AC unit typically points to one of a few underlying problems:
Restricted airflow: Clogged filters or blocked vents can prevent proper air circulation, leading to a drop in temperature inside the unit and causing condensation to freeze.
Low refrigerant levels: When refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, the pressure in your system decreases. This can result in the evaporator coil becoming too cold, which freezes the moisture in the air around it.
Dirty coils: If the evaporator coils are covered in dust or grime, they can’t absorb heat effectively—leading again to freezing conditions.
Mechanical issues: Malfunctioning fans, faulty thermostats, or other damaged components can all affect the balance needed for efficient cooling.
No matter the root cause, ice is always a warning sign that your system isn’t working properly.
Why Ignoring Ice Can Lead to Bigger Problems
At first, your air conditioner might still cool your home with ice forming—but not for long. When left unchecked, ice buildup can spiral into more serious issues:
Reduced efficiency: Your system has to work harder to cool your home, which increases your energy bills.
Worsening damage: Ice can expand and cause damage to your coils, refrigerant lines, or even your compressor.
Complete system breakdown: A frozen system that’s forced to run continuously may overheat or stop functioning altogether.
The longer the issue goes unresolved, the more expensive the repairs can become.
What to Do If You Spot Ice
If you notice ice on your air conditioner, don’t panic—but do act quickly. First, turn off your AC to prevent further damage. Then, give our team at Big Horn Heating & Cooling a call. With over 35 years of experience serving Cody, Jackson, Idaho Falls, and beyond, we can quickly diagnose the problem and provide reliable, long-term solutions.
Whether it’s a simple airflow issue or a more complex refrigerant leak, our certified technicians will restore your system’s performance and ensure your comfort is protected year-round.
Don't Let Ice Take Down Your Comfort
Ice might seem harmless on a hot summer day—but on your AC unit, it's a red flag. Trust Big Horn Heating & Cooling to keep your system running at its best. We’re local, family-owned, and always ready to help when you need us most.
Call us today at (307) 207-5525 to learn more!