Refrigerant leaks, when they occur, can leave the air conditioning system without the ability to create cool air for your home. Refrigerant leaks are not super common and mostly occur on older units. However, when a refrigerant leak does develop, it is important to have the leak repaired and the refrigerant recharged. When a refrigerant leaks out for too long, it can lead to more serious problems. Absolute P&M Services will share the causes and signs of a refrigerant leak.
What Could Cause an AC Refrigerant Leak?
An air conditioner can develop a refrigerant leak for a number of different reasons. One of the first being poor installation. If the air conditioner was not installed properly, it sometimes will lead to leaks somewhere within the refrigerant lines. The line’s connections may not be tight enough, or the lines are not properly insulated. This will cause the line to wear out and develop leaks. Another cause for a refrigerant leak can be due to wear and tear. As the air conditioner ages, the refrigerant lines in an air conditioner can become worn out. This can cause the lines to crack or develop leaks. Corrosion is another major cause for refrigerant leaks. As most refrigerant lines are made of copper, they tend to corrode over time. Corrosion often occurs when the copper lines are exposed to moisture. Lastly, physical damage to the refrigerant lines can also be damaged from some kind of physical impact. Regardless of the cause of the leak, a refrigerant leak can greatly impact the efficiency of an air conditioner and it can even lead to total system failure.
How Do I Know if My Refrigerant is Leaking?
When a sign of a refrigerant leak first develops, it is important that you seek a professional HVAC technician to come and repair the leak and recharge the air conditioner unit. Some of the common signs of a refrigerant leak are.
• Poor Cooling Capability: If your air conditioner is not cooling your home as it used to, this could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. The air conditioning system may struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature. The air conditioner will even run continuously and will fail to create cool air.
• Higher Energy Bills: When the air conditioner has a refrigerant leak, it has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which can cause your energy bills to increase.
• Icy Evaporator Coils: When the air conditioner’s evaporator coil is covered in ice, this is often a sign of a refrigerant leak. This occurs because of the reduced amount of refrigerant in the system, causing the coil to freeze.
• Hissing Sounds from AC: If you hear a hissing sound coming from your air conditioner, this is often the sound of a refrigerant leak. The sound is often caused by the refrigerant escaping from the system.
• Oil Stains Around AC: If you notice oil stains around your air conditioner, this is another sign of a refrigerant leak. The oil is used to lubricate the compressor, and if there is a leak, the oil may leak out as well.
Central Air Conditioner Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
If you notice that your air conditioner has signs that is has a refrigerant leak, seek professional repair immediately to prevent other more severe problems. For HVAC and plumbing services, contact Absolute P&M Services today.
