Refrigerant Leaks: What to Know
Refrigerant Leaks: What to Know
Do you suspect that your air conditioning system may have a refrigerant leak? A leak is one of the most common issues regarding an A/C. Loss of refrigerant, often referred to as coolant or freon, is not a good sign and affects the system’s performance.
What causes the leak?
Low refrigerant levels are the result of refrigerant leaks within the sealed system. This could be the result of age, corrosion, factory part failure or damage caused by outside sources.
Many factors can lead to a refrigerant leak:
- Improper installation
- Wear and tear
- Metal erosion
- Deterioration of joints or connections
- And more
The signs of a refrigerant leak
Your utility bills start to increase
A high electric bill might detect an A/C refrigerant leak. To keep your house cold, the A/C system has to work harder and consume more power.
Your system takes longer to cool your home
Your air conditioner has to work harder when there are freon leaks, especially in the heat. Because the air conditioner is not blowing cold air, it will take twice as long for your house to chill.
More humidity in your home than usual
When the air in your home becomes very humid, it is another clear signal of a freon leak. You could encounter moist circumstances when there is insufficient refrigerant in your system, which can lead to other issues like mold and mildew.
You may have frozen evaporator coils
A coolant or refrigerant leak could cause the evaporator coils to freeze. A frozen system is the outcome of cooling effects brought on by refrigerant loss. An evaporator coil could potentially freeze due to blocked air ducts. Keep airways open and avoid covering vents with rugs or furniture to prevent blocked air ducts.
Unusual hissing sounds
Your air conditioner’s hissing noises could be a sign that the compressor isn’t working correctly. The hiss could be an indication that your compressor is building pressure. If you’re having this issue, you need to call professionals immediately so they can check to see if there’s extra pressure.
Is a refrigerant leak dangerous?
Leaks of refrigerant can be harmful to both the environment and in some cases your health. It doesn’t have an odor, so it is hard to detect, making your home unsafe. You want to take care of the situation as best and as fast as you can.
You may notice the following symptoms due to a refrigerant leak:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Itchy skin and eyes
Next steps
If you have a refrigerant leak, it is best for the health and safety of you and your family to immediately call a Chas Roberts professional to look at your A/C system, so we can detect and fix any leaks, test the repair, and add refrigerant.
Family-owned Chas Roberts is the oldest and largest HVAC and plumbing provider in Arizona and has been in business for over 75 years. Contact us, and we can discuss the adequate steps to ensure your A/C system is working correctly.
