It is common for older AC units to start having issues after working to keep a home cool during summer after summer. One common problem among older units is a refrigerant leak. When homeowners are faced with this problem, it isn’t uncommon for them to want to have the unit repaired rather than replaced. However, with this issue, fixing the leak isn’t always an option. Absolute P&M Services is here to talk about refrigerant leaks and what ones can be fixed as well as what would require an AC replacement instead.
How to Know if a Refrigerant Leak Can Be Repaired
As mentioned above, there are some refrigerant leaks that can be fixed and save homeowners from an AC replacement. Following is the process in which a technician determines repair or replacement:
– Find the Refrigerant Leak: The first thing that needs to be done is to locate the leak. This often requires special equipment to get the job done. We can use a leak detector as well as UV dyes that can help us find the exact location of the leak.
– Assess the Damage: Whenever there is a refrigerant leak, it is important to assess the damage that has caused this problem. The severity of the leak is going to be the determining factor as to whether or not it can be repaired. If the leak is too large, it is probably not going to be repairable.
– Shut Down the AC Unit: When repair is possible, the power will need to be shut off to the unit so that the AC system can be isolated during the process. To prevent more refrigerant loss, the technician will close all the service valves.
– Repair Refrigerant Leak: If the leak is a small one, the technicians will carry on with a repair by either using epoxy or solder. The damaged area will be cleaned thoroughly beforehand to ensure the epoxy or solder sticks.
– Replace Damaged Parts: Sometimes, there are parts that need to be replaced due to damage. When this is required, the parts will be replaced which might involve removing the refrigerant.
– Recharge Refrigerant: If too much refrigerant was lost, there might be a recharge that is necessary when refrigerant is added to the system.
When AC Unit Replacement is Necessary
If the refrigerant leak is too large or severe, there might be no way that it can be repaired. In this case, a technician will likely recommend that the unit is replaced entirely. This can seem like the more expensive route, but you don’t want to sink a bunch of money into an old, inefficient unit.
Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
If you have a refrigerant leak, you can turn to Absolute P&M Services to help determine whether or not it can be repaired. Regardless of whether or not you need to repair or replace, we will handle it for you. We will make sure your AC is working flawlessly to keep you cool this summer. Call us today!
