ice around copper tubing

Hey
my a.c's been running now for a few hours (the first time this year). I have no air coming out the vents. Its running outside and when i go down to the basement were the copper tubing enters the unit it has ice build up. it sounds as though its running fine .
Obviously i dont know the first thing about ac units but can any one help identify the problem?
Any help would be greatly appretiated.
Thanks in advance
Krown

 

Your pipes are freezing up because there is a low charge in the system. You need to call out a A/C tech to fix it for you. You can do it yourself if you are certified for section 608 of the clean air act.

 

Thanks for the reply Richardb3.
ill call mon
Does this mean there is a leak in my system or does the system loose charge over time
Thanks
Krown

 

What you need to do is turn the outdoor unit off and let the indoor unit thaw out. It may take several hours. Put the fan switch in the ON position but set the thermostat way above room temp. That way the air flow will help melt the ice on the indoor coil. Once it is melted completely you should have airflow again. Check the air filter. Low airflow will cause the indoor coil to ice up and after it ices to the point where air can't move through it, the ice works its way back to the outdoor unit. If the system is low, the same may happen as richardb3 already said. The key is to know what started the icing. If it is an air filter, dead blower motor, or dirty indoor coil, you may be able to DIY. If it is truly a refrigerant problem a professional will be required. Diagnose and get back to us.

Ken