Air Conditioning Repairs | 3 Signs Your Refrigerant Is Leaking From Your Air Conditioner

Leaking refrigerant in your AC is always a reason for concern because it not only compromises cooling, but it also affects the efficiency of your unit. When refrigerant leaks, an air conditioning repairs company will need to identify the source and fix the problem. This guide equips you with signs to help you know if refrigerant is leaking from your AC.

Low Cooling Power

A major sign of leaking AC refrigerant is low cooling power –– either because you haven't filled it or because of a leak somewhere in the system. This affects the capacity of the evaporator coil to absorb heat, which means that warmth will continue to remain in the air. When the unit is unable to absorb enough heat because of leaking refrigerant, it will work harder to supply cool air to your room and will result in increased electricity bills. Air conditioning repairs entails finding the leak source and sealing it with some form of putty or resin. If the leak is severe, then a whole component within your cooling system may need replacement. 

Ice Forms On The Evaporator Coil

If refrigerant is low in the evaporator coil because of a leak somewhere in the system, the coil is unable to absorb heat. This will cause condensation on the coil, which can freeze over time and break down your cooling system. Ice forming on the evaporator coil is easy to detect because you may notice beads of water falling from your unit. When ice on the evaporator coil melts, it could potentially damage other parts of the unit. 

Hissing Sounds From The Compressor  

When AC refrigerant begins to leak, you may hear a hissing sound. This is because refrigerant needs pressure to operate, but a leak will defuse the pressure. This audible sound may be heard from your external compressor component. Apart from a hissing sound, you may also hear a sound that resembles bubbles being burst. The leak can typically occur because of corrosion or rust formation on the refrigerant lines or within the compressor unit itself. Despite your best efforts, it simply may not be possible for you to establish the source of the leak. This type of damage is best addressed by a qualified air conditioning repairs technician, who will assess and establish whether the leak can be repaired or whether the component needs to be replaced completely.

If you notice any of these signs of leaking refrigerant in your cooling system, call a qualified air conditioning repairs technician immediately to handle it.


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