Rheem Rheem Classic Series RA16 3-Ton 16 SEER Central Air Conditioner FREEZING UP Error Fix: Evaporator Coil Freezing — Ice on Refrigerant Lines

Error code FREEZING UP on the Rheem Rheem Classic Series RA16 3-Ton 16 SEER Central Air Conditioner means: Evaporator Coil Freezing — Ice on Refrigerant Lines. Ice is forming on the copper refrigerant lines (especially the larger suction line) or on the indoor evaporator coil inside the air handler or furnace. The system may blow warm air or just stop working. Two main causes: (1) Low refrigerant charge — insufficient refrigerant in the system causes the evaporator coil pressure and temperature to drop below 32°F, causing moisture from the air to freeze on the coil surface. This creates an insulating ice layer that blocks airflow, making the problem progressively worse. (2) Restricted airflow — a dirty air filter, blocked return air vents, closed supply registers, or a dirty evaporator coil prevents sufficient warm air from flowing across the evaporator, and the coil gets too cold. Immediate action: turn the system OFF and set the fan to ON (not AUTO) to circulate room-temperature air across the coil to melt the ice. This may take 2-4 hours for heavy ice buildup. Replace the air filter. If the problem recurs after ensuring good airflow, call a technician to check the refrigerant charge for a leak.

The most successful fix is "Check Refrigerant Charge and Repair Leaks" (hard difficulty, ~90 minutes). This fix costs nothing. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

This error is rated warning severity. It is generally not urgent and can often be resolved with a simple DIY fix.

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Check Refrigerant Charge and Repair Leaks") is rated hard difficulty and takes about 90 minutes. Tools needed: HVAC manifold gauge set, Electronic leak detector, Vacuum pump, Refrigerant charging scale.

DIY cost: $0. Professional repair typically costs $300-$500. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

The Rheem Rheem Classic Series RA16 3-Ton 16 SEER Central Air Conditioner has 7 other known error codes, including: CAPACITOR FAIL (Run/Start Capacitor Failure), CONTACTOR FAIL (Contactor Failure or Pitting), FAN MOTOR FAIL (Condenser Fan Motor Failure), NOT COOLING (AC Not Cooling — Outdoor Unit Running), NOT STARTING (Outdoor Unit Won't Start), and 2 more.