As a homeowner, you rely on your air conditioning system to keep you comfortable during the sweltering summer months. But what if it isn’t working as it should? One issue that can seriously impact your comfort and your wallet is a leaking refrigerant. In this post, American Refrigeration Heating and Air Conditioning Co., Inc. shares the signs that your AC has this problem and how to go about it.
Warm Air Blowing From Vents
A well-functioning AC system should provide consistent cooling in your home. This happens when the refrigerant changes from gas to liquid and vice versa as it moves through evaporator and condenser coils. However, if your system is struggling to provide cool air and blows warm air from the vents instead, it’s likely that it is leaking refrigerant.
Hissing or Bubbling Noises
A refrigerant leak can cause air bubbles to form within the system, leading to hissing or bubbling sounds that you can hear near your indoor unit. As soon as you notice these strange sounds, turn off your AC and have a professional technician check its interiors to determine the source.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
A refrigerant leak prevents the AC system from transferring the heat absorbed from the indoors out of the air handler and into the outdoor condenser coils. As pressure within the coils continues to drop, moisture accumulation freezes onto the coils, resulting in ice formations. This reduces the unit’s efficiency and performance, and would require immediate attention from a professional technician.
High Electricity Bills
If your AC is low on refrigerant, it must work harder and consume more energy to cool your home. This, in turn, will reflect on your monthly bills.
The Dangers of a Refrigerant Leak
A refrigerant leak is not only detrimental to your AC’s performance but can also pose several hazards.
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Health risks. Exposure to refrigerants can cause symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and headaches.
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Environmental concerns. Many refrigerants used in AC systems are harmful to the environment, contributing to ozone depletion and climate change.
Don’t wait until your AC’s efficiency and longevity becomes jeopardized because of a refrigerant leak. Count on American Refrigeration Heating and Air Conditioning Co., Inc. to improve your HVAC system’s performance and keep your home safe and comfortable. Call us at (662) 895-7204, or fill out this contact form to schedule an appointment.