Refrigerant Basics Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Air conditioners cannot work properly without refrigerant or coolant. This substance, which lives in the AC unit’s coils, takes the heat from the air and provides cool air for the home. Refrigerant enables an air conditioner to work properly. Without it, homes cannot cool to the desired temperature.
It’s important for property owners to fully understand what type of refrigerant their unit needs and what signs to look for that can indicate leaks or that professional repairs are needed.
How to Tell Which Refrigerant an AC Uses
HVAC technicians often surprise homeowners when they explain there are numerous types of refrigerant and that each unit requires a specific type. Refrigerant is not interchangeable, and using the wrong type can damage an air conditioner.
- How to determine the type of refrigerant: Homeowners should check the outside of their AC unit for a label that lists the type of refrigerant their system needs. They can also ask a professional to help them identify the type they need if they are unsure.
- When to replace the system: If an AC unit was built before 2010, it may use R-22 (freon). R22 refrigerant has been banned in newer models, as it is dangerous to the environment. Because of this, HVAC experts may recommend replacing the unit.
What Causes Refrigerant Leaks?
One of the most common reasons for refrigerant repairs is leaks. These can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most frequent causes include corrosion, poor installation, aging, and a lack of proper maintenance.
Rust and corrosion can occur as air conditioners age. The chemicals causing the corrosion can cause small holes in the tubing, resulting in refrigerant leaks. Damage to AC units during installation, or if a coil or valve malfunctions, can also cause leaks.
A cause homeowners might not often consider is how maintenance - or lack thereof - can lead to leaks. Failing to schedule services with a technician can open a system to problems. When an expert inspects a system annually, they will use a refrigerant leak detector to identify issues and repair small problems before they become larger. By forgoing services, there can be problems that go unrepaired and eventually lead to leaks.
When is it Time to Call a Professional?
To prevent major water damage, homeowners need to spot the signs of refrigerant leaks, frozen AC coils, and other problems as soon as possible so they can schedule repairs with an HVAC technician.
There are numerous signs property owners should watch for. One of the most common and obvious problems is if the house is not cooling to the desired temperature. If a house feels too warm, it can signal insufficient refrigerant due to a leak.
Homeowners should also call for repairs if their AC system runs continuously, hear hissing or gurgling sounds, or see ice forming on the refrigerant lines, leading to a frozen coil.
About Crowes Comfort Solutions
At Crowes Comfort Solutions, their customer’s comfort is their top priority. They have emergency services available and guarantee 100% satisfaction with every appointment. Call them today for HVAC services in Brooklet, GA.
