Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

May 17, 2026

Quick Answer: Air conditioners usually freeze because airflow across the evaporator coil is restricted or refrigerant pressure is too low. Common causes include a dirty filter, blocked vents, a dirty coil, blower problems, refrigerant leaks, low outdoor temperatures, or a faulty TXV. Turn the cooling off and allow the system to thaw before restarting it. Finding ice on your air conditioner during an O’Fallon heatwave may seem strange, but it is a common sign that the cooling system is not operating properly. The ice usually begins on the indoor evaporator coil, although it can spread along the refrigerant line and become visible near the outside AC unit. A frozen air conditioner may produce weak airflow, blow warm air, run continuously, or stop cooling altogether. Continuing to operate the system while it is frozen can strain the compressor and allow a relatively minor problem to cause more extensive damage. Contact Us for AC Service How Can You Tell If Your AC Is Frozen? The evaporator coil is normally located inside the air handler or above the furnace, so the ice may not be immediately visible. Common warning signs include: Warm air coming from the vents Weak or reduced airflow The air...

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How Long Can an AC Run Continuously?

May 15, 2026

Technically, a central AC can run 24/7, but it usually shouldn’t. In standard summer weather, a healthy unit cycles for 15–20 minutes, two to three times per hour. If your AC runs for hours without stopping, it may be due to an undersized unit, dirty filters, or extreme outdoor heat. Whether you own your home or you’re renting, odds are that your air conditioner is one of the most important appliances in your home during the hot summer months in O’Fallon, MO. Not only does it keep the indoor temperature comfortable, but it also helps remove humidity from the air. However, some air conditioning systems have a limit on how long they can run continuously. This raises the question: How long can an air conditioning unit run continuously before it needs to be shut off? The answer depends on the type of unit. Contact Us Today for AC Service! Troubleshooting Diagnostic Table Symptom Is It Normal? Potential Cause Running for 20 minutes, then off for 10 ✅ Normal Standard cooling cycle Running all day when it is over 100°F outside ⚠️ Usually Normal The system is working against extreme heat Running constantly when it is 75°F outside ❌ Problem Dirty...

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Cooling vs Moisture Control: Why Dehumidifiers Matter in Missouri

May 2, 2026

Missouri summers bring more than heat. They bring high humidity that can make you feel sticky and uncomfortable. You rely on your air conditioner to keep the temperature bearable. An AC system does remove some humidity, but it can’t always control moisture levels effectively on its own. Understanding the difference between cooling and dehumidification can help you create a more comfortable home and avoid overworking your HVAC system during summer. Cooling and Moisture Control Are Not the Same Thing It’s easy to assume that lowering the temperature will solve comfort issues, but humidity is equally important. When moisture levels rise, your body can’t cool itself efficiently because sweat evaporates more slowly. This makes the air feel warmer than it is, even if your thermostat shows a comfortable setting. Your air conditioner focuses on reducing the temperature. It removes some moisture as a byproduct of cooling, but that process depends on how long the system runs. In many circumstances, it may not run long enough to remove humidity. This creates a situation where your home feels cool but still damp. A dedicated dehumidifier can target the moisture more effectively. What Your AC Can and Can’t Do Your air conditioner’s primary function...

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From Heating to Cooling: Getting Your Geothermal System Ready for Summer

May 1, 2026

If you rely on a geothermal system, you already benefit from one of the most efficient heating and cooling methods available. As the seasons change, your system shifts from heating your O’Fallon, MO home to removing heat, which requires a different level of performance. Preparing your geothermal system for summer allows it to take full advantage of the ground’s natural ability to absorb heat and keep your home comfortable during warmer months. How Geothermal Systems Transition from Heating to Cooling A geothermal system operates differently than traditional HVAC systems because it uses the stable temperature of the ground rather than the variable outdoor air temperature. During winter, the system pulls heat from the ground and transfers it into your home. As temperatures rise, the system reverses this process. In cooling mode, your geothermal system removes heat from inside your home and transfers it into the ground. This process relies on a reversing valve that changes the direction of heat transfer. Instead of collecting heat, the system releases it. This transition does not require major adjustments, but the system must be efficient to be able to handle the increased cooling demand. Preparing your system before summer begins helps it perform as...

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