What Are The Signs Of A Refrigerant Leak?

One of the most common issues that can compromise your AC’s performance is a refrigerant leak. Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning handles countless AC leaks for our local homeowners, but they can be tricky to spot.

So, how can you tell if your system is losing its cool? Let’s explore the signs of a refrigerant leak and what you can do about it.

Understanding Refrigerant

Before we dive into the signs, it’s important to understand what refrigerant does. Often referred to as Freon (a brand name), refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. It’s responsible for absorbing heat from your home and releasing it outside. Without the proper amount of refrigerant, your AC can’t effectively cool your space.

Signs Of Coolant Leaking From Air Conditioner

Decreased Cooling Efficiency

If you notice that your AC is running longer than usual to cool your home, or it’s not cooling as effectively as it once did, this could be a sign of freon leaking. As refrigerant levels drop, your system has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature.

Higher Energy Bills

Have you noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills? When your AC is low on refrigerant, it has to run longer and work harder to cool your home, leading to increased energy consumption. In our Farmington climate, where ACs often run for extended periods, this can result in significantly higher utility costs.

Ice Formation On The Evaporator Coil

Paradoxically, a lack of refrigerant can cause ice to form on your AC’s evaporator coil. If you notice ice on the copper lines leading to your outdoor unit, this is a clear sign that something’s amiss with your refrigerant levels.

Hissing Or Bubbling Sounds

Wondering how to know if you have a freon leak? Listen closely. If you hear hissing or bubbling sounds coming from your AC unit, especially when it’s not running, this could indicate that refrigerant is escaping through a leak.

Warm Air from Vents

When your AC is low on refrigerant, it can’t cool the air effectively. If you feel warm air coming from your vents when the AC is running, this could be a sign of a refrigerant leak.

The Dangers Of Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks are not just bad for your comfort and your wallet — they can also be harmful to the environment and your health. Many older AC units use R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to its negative environmental impact. Newer systems use more eco-friendly refrigerants, but any leak can be potentially harmful if inhaled.

What To Do If You Suspect A Leak

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. While it might be tempting to try and add refrigerant yourself, this is not a DIY job. Refrigerant is a controlled substance that should only be handled by certified professionals. Plus, simply adding more refrigerant without fixing the leak is like putting a band-aid on a broken arm — it doesn’t solve the underlying problem.

At Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, we have the expertise to accurately diagnose and repair refrigerant leaks. Our trained technicians can perform a thorough inspection, locate the leak, and provide the necessary repairs. We can also ensure that your system is charged with the correct amount of refrigerant for optimal performance.

Preventing Future Leaks With Seasonal Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to preventing refrigerant leaks. By scheduling annual check-ups with us, we can catch potential issues before they become major problems. We’ll inspect your system for wear and tear, clean crucial components, and ensure everything is functioning as it should.

Remember, your AC system is designed to be a closed loop — refrigerant shouldn’t need to be “topped off” under normal circumstances. If you’re frequently needing to add refrigerant, this is a clear sign that there’s a leak that needs to be addressed.

Farmington AC Services

Don’t let a refrigerant leak leave you sweating in the Farmington heat. If you suspect your AC might be losing its cool, give us a call at Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re your local HVAC experts, dedicated to keeping your home comfortable all year round.