Warning Signs of an Air Conditioning Refrigerant Leak

Is the AC Leaking Refrigerant? How Homeowners Can Know

The first iteration of the machine people know today as the air conditioner used a block of ice or cold water as a way to reduce the temperature of the air. While this method did cool the air, there was room for improvement. When scientists and engineers developed refrigerants, it significantly advanced the science of cooling. Through the somewhat simple concept of evaporation and condensation, refrigerant absorbs and releases heat, making homes and businesses more comfortable as temperatures outdoors rise. Refrigerant is the driving force behind air conditioning, so when something goes wrong with it, it has repercussions. Refrigerant leaks will cause serious issues with a home’s HVAC system, even minor ones.  

Red Flag #1: The Evaporator Coil Has Frozen

The evaporator coil is the part of an air conditioning unit that absorbs heat, causing the refrigerant to enter a gaseous state. A leak, whether from a puncture or corrosion, may occur, and the gas under pressure will rapidly expand, causing the moisture in the air to freeze around the coil. This not only costs refrigerant but can also hinder the air conditioning unit in other ways. A frozen evaporator coil should be investigated right away. 

Red Flag #2: The AC Is Not Cooling as It Should

What if a homeowner notices that the AC seems to reach the temperature set by the thermostat slower than usual? This can also be indicative of a refrigerant leak. If a homeowner notices the things in the list below, they should consider calling in a professional with a refrigerant leak detector.

• Higher Energy Bills: Because the unit has to work harder to cool with less refrigerant, it will use more energy, increasing the household electricity bill.
• Longer Cooling Cycles: If it takes a long time for the optimal temperature to reach, then there may be a problem with the refrigerant.
• Warm Air from Vents: If the air coming from the vents of the HVAC system is warm or not as cool as it should be, this is another indicator of refrigerant leaks.

Red Flag #3: The Air Conditioning Is Making Strange Noises

Another sign that there is a problem with the refrigerant is unusual sounds. These are usually coming from the air conditioning unit itself. Sounds that are coming through the vents are usually indicative of a problem with the air ducts. If the AC unit makes any of the following sounds, it should be investigated, especially if it is paired with any of the abovementioned occurrences.

• Bubbling
• Gurgling
• Hissing
• Whistling

A homeowner should never try to detect the leak on their own. Breathing in refrigerant gas can make a person very ill, so steer clear. Call a professional HVAC technician who can use the proper tools to find and fix the leak.

About Air Care Heating and Cooling

Located in Mint Hill, NC, and serving the Greater Charlotte Area, Air Care Heating and Cooling offers 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and guaranteed satisfaction. Call this BBB-accredited business today for AC service.

Contact Information:

Air Care Heating and Cooling

11211 Allen Station Dr A
Charlotte, NC 28227
United States

James Brown
(704) 469-5833
https://aircarecharlotte.com/