Experiencing These Issues? You Might Have a Refrigerant Leak
As the summer winds down, it might be worth checking in on the AC unit in the home to assess for post-seasonal wear and tear. Air conditioning units are understandably overused during the summer months, and one potential side effect of extended use could be a refrigerant leak coming from the unit. The refrigerant cools down the air that comes out of the unit, and if there is a leak, it greatly affects the overall efficiency.
This article will discuss several issues to look out for that indicate a refrigerant leak, such as frozen evaporator coils, the AC not cooling properly, and unusual sounds from the unit.
Check Frozen Evaporator Coils
A common sign of a refrigerant leak in the AC unit is noticing frozen evaporator coils. Evaporator coils turn warmer air into cooler air and release it into the home. If there is a leak in the coils, the refrigerant circulating in them decreases, and, over time, this will cause them to freeze.
If not treated, icy buildup on the evaporator coils prevents the AC unit from working properly and can lead to costly repairs. Frozen evaporator coils are a telltale sign that refrigerant leak repair is required, and an HVAC professional should be contacted as soon as possible to assess the issue.
AC Isn’t Producing Cool Air
Another key indicator of a refrigerant leak is if the AC vents out warm air or fails to cool the home down. Refrigerant removes the heat inside the home before the AC unit can cool it down, so the absence of air conditioner refrigerant will cause the unit to produce warmer air than desired. The longer this continues, the longer the cooling cycle will be for the AC unit, eventually increasing the utility bill.
Along with an increase in the energy bill, the added strain that the unit goes through to keep up with cooling efforts will cause the unit’s lifespan to decrease, resulting in inefficiency. The sooner an air conditioning refrigerant leak is identified, the less likely it is to cause additional costs.
Strange Noises Coming From the AC Unit
Refrigerant leaks can cause unusual noises in the air conditioning unit. If there is a leak in the refrigerant line, it's common to hear noises such as hissing, gurgling, or bubbling inside the unit. Gas escaping the enclosed space of the refrigerant line will more often than not cause audible noises as it fights its way through the crack or opening.
When gas makes its way out of the line, the pressure loss will cause an audible sound, similar to when air leaves a popped tire. If any of these symptoms are seen, it’s recommended that an HVAC professional be contacted to perform a proper refrigerant leak repair.
About Central Heating
Since 2007, Central Heating has been the most trusted name in HVAC repair in the Barrie, ON, area. With expert workmanship and service paired with affordable pricing and financing options, their team is standing by to help you every step of the way. Call today to schedule a regular HVAC maintenance consultation and refrigerant leak repairs in Barrie, ON!
