One of the most common issues experienced by any air conditioning system is a refrigerant leak. The job of the refrigerant is to cool your home by removing the warm air inside your AC system and relocating it outside. However, for several reasons, the refrigerant may begin to leak. Not only can a refrigerant leak cause efficiency and performance issues, but it can also cause serious health problems for anyone exposed to the problem.
Remember, you should never try to refill the refrigerant in your AC system. Unlike oil or gas, refrigerant is never going to “run dry.” Instead, the AC system will circulate it continuously through the system.
Getting to know the signs that an AC system has begun to leak refrigerant is important to keeping a home comfortable and ensuring everyone is safe. Learn more about the signs of a refrigerant leak so you know when to take action, here.
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Reduced Airflow
If your AC system is low on refrigerant, it won’t be producing as much cooled air as it typically does. This is one of the first indications of a problem with the refrigerant.
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The AC has Started Blowing Warm Air
Another sign of a problem is if your home takes longer than usual to cool down. You may also notice warm air coming out of the vents.
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Ice Accumulation on the Evaporator Coil or Copper Lines
Another indication of a refrigerant leak is if ice has built up on the evaporator coils or the copper lines. If the system does not have the proper amount of refrigerant to cool the home, then the evaporator coils and copper lines may begin absorbing excessive amounts of heat. This can result in the build up of condensation and cause the coils or lines to freeze.
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Higher than Normal Electrical Costs
When your AC system has started leaking refrigerant, it has to work harder to cool your home. This means the system uses more energy, and results in higher than normal energy costs.
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Your Home Takes Longer to Cool Down
As mentioned earlier, refrigerant works by absorbing heat from inside the home and moving it outside. However, if the system doesn’t have enough refrigerant in it, it won’t have the ability to cool your home as efficiently as it should.
Signs of Freon Poisoning
This is a problem that occurs if someone has become exposed to large amounts of freon (also known as refrigerant). This is because freon contains fluorinated hydrocarbons, which can cause several health issues. Because the chemical is odorless and colorless, you need to be vigilant to know if a leak is present.
Some of the signs of this issue include fluid buildup in the lungs, trouble breathing, nausea and dizziness.
If you notice signs of a refrigerant leak, then the best thing you can do is call the professionals for help. They can evaluate the issue and ensure you get the repairs you want and need.