How to Tell if There is an AC Refrigerant Leak

Many homeowners will see sudden spikes in their electricity bills as leaking refrigerant makes the AC system less efficient.

As the summer days approach and temperatures rise, many homeowners crank their air conditioning units to cool down. However, if refrigerant leaks, the unit may become ineffective at cooling air and even raise energy bills.

Here's how to detect an AC refrigerant leak:

The AC won't cool the air properly

The first tell-tale sign of a refrigerant leak is dysfunctional cooling performance. It might take longer to reach the desired temperature, or the AC might not reach it all.

That said, it's important to mention that there can be multiple reasons behind the loss of cooling power besides a refrigerant leak. Homeowners should call qualified professionals to assess the unit and perform the necessary repairs.

Hissing and other sounds coming from the AC unit

Refrigerant leaks happen because of cracks, holes, or damage in the circulation coils. A hissing sound could signify that extra air enters these coils while the refrigerant leaks. For more significant leaks, the unit might even make a gurgling sound. Both of these issues will need a professional assessment.

Ice building up on the evaporator coils

Ice buildup is a sure sign of a major issue with an AC unit. Insufficient refrigerant will cause the coils to freeze over as the unit doesn't absorb optimal heat levels. Unfortunately, many AC owners don't take this issue seriously. But it could lead to a potential breakdown of the cooling system. The ice buildup also restricts airflow, leading to a less effective unit.

Rising electrical bills

Many homeowners will see sudden spikes in their electricity bills as leaking refrigerant makes the AC system less efficient. The cooling process wastes more energy while raising costs to achieve the same results. If homeowners notice a bill increase while not doing anything out of the ordinary, leaky refrigerant could be the culprit.

Warm air instead of cool air coming from the vents

If homeowners want a test for leaking refrigerant, they can put their hands up to the AC unit vents. The unit will need repairs if the air is warm instead of cool. When the refrigerant is optimal, the system will efficiently circulate heat instead of blowing it through the vents.

Fix refrigerant leaks with the help of professionals

Homeowners shouldn't attempt to fix any AC unit malfunctions, including refrigerant leaks, by themselves. Repairs such as these require the expertise of a seasoned professional. Routine maintenance and prevention are also crucial for ensuring optimal cooling from AC units. For that reason, homeowners should call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair the system quickly and effectively.

Fix My Air DFW of Fort Worth specializes in residential and commercial HVAC services including routine maintenance, installation, and repair. All makes/models. Call us at 817-439-9811