When Should a Homeowner Call an HVAC Technician About AC Refrigerant?
Air conditioners have developed extensively over the years regarding their coolness. The first air conditioners used moistened cloth and ice blocks to lower the air temperature. When refrigerant or coolant was developed, it was a boon for many engineering fields, but HVAC and air conditioning certainly greatly benefited from it. The refrigerant is like the lifeblood of the cooling system, absorbing the heat in the home and dispersing it outside through evaporation and condensation. A refrigerant leak can throw everything off. The paragraphs below detail the signs that a home has leaking AC refrigerant.
The Evaporator Coils Become Frozen
Frozen evaporator coils are a clear indicator of a refrigerant leak. If storm damage or other physical impact happens, it can lead to a puncture in the coils. Chemical reactions can also occur that cause corrosion of the coils, leading to a leak. When the compressed gas exits the coil, the absorbed heat is dissipated, and the air's moisture around the coils condenses and freezes. If a homeowner notices frozen evaporator coils, they should call an HVAC technician. Leaking refrigerant can harm the environment and people, so homeowners should avoid the area if they suspect a leak.
Warm or Hot Air Blows from the Vents
If the air coming out of the vents is warmer than it should be or just plain hot, there may be a refrigerant leak. A small leak may go unnoticed for a while, but other occurrences will follow quickly after the leak.
- Longer Cooling Cycles: The air conditioning unit will run more often and for longer periods.
- Higher Energy Bills: A loss of refrigerant means a less efficient cooling ability. This means the unit must work harder and may not reach optimal temperatures.
- High Humidity: Warmer air tends to be more humid, and losing coolant may increase temperature and decrease air quality.
Any time air that is distinctly the wrong temperature is blowing through the vents, there is a problem. It will likely take a professional inspection to fix. If it is a coolant leak, the entire section of coils will likely need to be replaced, as any repair or plug will be temporary.
Weird Sounds Emanate from the Unit
When steam or any sort of pressurized gas escapes a small hole, unusual sounds can result. The same is true if there is a refrigerant leak. The sounds will come directly from the unit itself. If the sounds are in the ducts, a different problem must be addressed.
- Hissing
- Bubbling
- Whistling
- Squealing
Any of these sounds can indicate a refrigerant leak. Homeowners should call in a professional with a refrigerant leak detector to prevent any family member from being exposed to the coolant.
About Crowe's Comfort Solutions
With flat-rate pricing and on-time service, Crowe's Comfort Solutions is the choice of Pooler, GA, for HVAC installation and repair. Call today for information about their emergency services.
