Your HVAC system relies on Refrigerant to keep your home comfortable by absorbing and releasing heat. However, a coolant leak can reduce your system’s efficiency, lead to higher energy bills, and even cause serious damage to your unit if left unchecked. But how can you tell if your HVAC system is losing refrigerant? Absolute P&M Services will cover the key signs of a refrigerant leak, why it happens, and what you should do if you suspect a problem.
Why is HVAC Refrigerant Important?
Refrigerant is a chemical compound that cycles through your HVAC system to absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside. This process keeps your air cool in the summer and can also help with heating in heat pump systems during winter. When refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, your HVAC system won’t be able to cool properly, leading to poor performance, higher energy use, and potential system failure.
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak in Your HVAC System
Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Properly: One of the first signs of a refrigerant leak is poor cooling performance. If your air conditioner runs constantly but struggles to reach the set temperature, a refrigerant leak might be the culprit.
Hissing or Bubbling Noises: Refrigerant leaks aren’t always visible, but you might be able to hear them. If there’s a hole or crack in the refrigerant lines, you may hear a hissing sound as the gas escapes. If the leak is severe, you might also hear a bubbling noise caused by air mixing with the refrigerant.
Ice Buildup on the Evaporator Coil or Refrigerant Lines: Low refrigerant levels cause the evaporator coil to get too cold, leading to ice buildup on the coils or refrigerant lines. Over time, this can cause serious damage to your air conditioner system.
Higher Energy Bills: An air conditioner system with low refrigerant will work harder to cool your home, leading to higher energy consumption. If you notice a spike in your electricity bill without a clear reason such as a heatwave, a refrigerant leak could be to blame.
Air Conditioner Short Cycling: Refrigerant leaks can disrupt the normal cycles of your air conditioner system, causing it to turn on and off more frequently. This is known as short cycling, and it not only reduces efficiency but also puts extra strain on your system, leading to premature wear and tear.
Unpleasant Chemical Smells: While refrigerant leaks are often odorless, in some cases, they may give off a sweet, chloroform-like smell. This is especially true for older air conditioner units using Freon (R-22), which have been phased out due to environmental concerns.
What to Do if You Suspect a Refrigerant Leak
• Turn off your HVAC system to prevent further damage.
• Do not attempt to refill refrigerant yourself. Handling coolant requires special training.
• Call a certified HVAC technician for a professional leak inspection and repair.
• Consider upgrading your system if you have an older air conditioner unit that still uses Freon (R-22), which is no longer produced.
Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
A refrigerant leak in your HVAC system is not just a cooling problem, it is a serious issue that needs immediate attention. If you notice any of the warning signs, contact Absolute P&M Services and schedule our services today.
