Central air conditioning systems typically don't freeze through walls and transfer ice to another room without ductwork connections. The cooling process in a central air conditioning system involves the circulation of refrigerant through a closed-loop system. This refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air in the evaporator coil and releases it outside in the condenser unit.
However, there are a few scenarios that might cause issues leading to ice formation:
Frozen Evaporator Coil: If the evaporator coil inside the air handler unit becomes too cold due to restricted airflow, refrigerant issues, or other problems, it can freeze the condensation on the coil. This ice can restrict airflow further and eventually lead to reduced cooling performance. The ice buildup is limited to the air handler unit and is not likely to transfer to other rooms.
Ductwork Issues: If there are leaks or poor insulation in the ductwork, it might cause the cooled air to escape into walls or unconditioned spaces. This can lead to condensation and moisture buildup, which may eventually cause mold or damage to the walls, but it shouldn't cause ice to form and transfer to another room.
Frost on Outdoor Unit: In some cases, the outdoor condenser unit might accumulate frost during colder weather. This can happen if the system is not defrosting properly. However, this frost is localized to the outdoor unit and should not cause ice to transfer through walls.
If you notice ice formation on the air conditioning system or any unusual cooling issues, it's essential to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and address the problem. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to cooling system issues can help ensure efficient and safe operation.