Refrigerant Leaks: What To Know
Air conditioning is essential for a comfortable home. However, like any other machine, issues can arise, making an AC unit less effective. One such problem is a refrigerant leak. This makes the air conditioner work harder and use more energy, and if left alone for too long, it can lead to permanent damage.
Here are some of the most common signs that an AC system may leak refrigerant so that it’s clear when it’s time to get it fixed.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
One of the most obvious ways to tell if an AC system has a refrigerant leak is by checking for frozen evaporator coils. These play an important role in absorbing heat from the air inside the home, and they need AC refrigerant to do their job.
When there isn’t enough refrigerant in the air conditioner due to a leak, the coil won’t be able to pull as much heat out of the air as it should. This leads to condensation on the coil freezing, which will be seen as ice on the unit.
The AC Isn’t Cooling Properly
Another way to tell if an AC unit leaks refrigerant is by how well it cools the home. When less refrigerant moves through the system because it’s all leaked out, things won’t cool as fast or as well as they should. This could appear in two different ways:
- The air coming from vents isn’t cold at all
- The vented air is cooler than actual room temperature but not enough for comfort
The longer cooling cycles are likely to lead to higher utility bills, as the motor will now have to run for longer periods just to get some cool air into the house.
Besides longer cooling cycles, refrigerant leaks can also lead to increased wear and tear on the components. The result is a shorter lifespan of the AC unit and more potential costs in repairs or replacement.
Hearing Strange Sounds
Lastly, if the AC unit makes any strange sounds, there could be a refrigerant leak. These sounds could be hissing, gurgling, or bubbling, and they come from the pressurized refrigerant escaping through cracks and holes in the system. Hissing is especially bad because it usually means that gas refrigerant is leaking out somewhere.
If any of these noises come from an AC unit, it’s best to check everything immediately. If there is an air conditioning refrigerant leak, acting immediately can save money in the long run by preventing further damage. Having things go smoothly at home is always a plus, but sometimes, things just don’t work. If any of these three signs are present in an AC unit, know it’s time to seek professional help before anything worsens.
About City Plumbing
For plumbing, HVAC, or refrigerant leak detector services in Philadelphia or South Jersey, City Plumbing is the number one choice. Their experience and expertise in the field is unmatched. They always deliver top quality, which means the home’s systems will work at their best. Their team is licensed and committed to excellence, ensuring they’re up for any challenge. They also keep safety measures and compliance at the forefront of their operations. Contact them today to schedule AC repair.
