Signs of Low Refrigerant in AC
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning unit. When this fluid is running low or depletes, your air conditioner will struggle to keep your home cool and comfortable. Even worse, if you attempt to operate your HVAC system normally when the refrigerant is extra low, it can cause damage to your system. If you suspect your air conditioning system may be low on refrigerant, here are four signs your AC is low on refrigerant.
Common symptoms of low refrigerant in AC units
1. Your AC System Is Making a Hissing or Bubbling Noise
Because air conditioners do not technically use up refrigerant like gas, the primary reason for low levels of refrigerant is a leak. Refrigerant leaks can be hard to detect because the gas is colorless and odorless. However, when the fluid is escaping the unit, you may notice an audible hissing or bubbling noise that is produced as the fluid is forced out. If you hear these sounds, it’s crucial to contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair the leak before it causes further damage. Learn More about AC Repair Services at Quick Servant Co.
2. Ice Buildup on Your AC System
3. Slow Cooling Performance
A refrigerant leak will force your air conditioner to work much harder to cool your home. As a result, you may notice that your system is taking longer than normal to reach a comfortable temperature. When there is no refrigerant to absorb the heat of the air being taken into the unit, it will blow back lukewarm air. The less material there is to draw heat out of the air, the less likely you are to feel results coming from the supply vent. This situation aligns with how to tell if the AC refrigerant is low. If your AC is struggling to cool your home efficiently, have a technician check the refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.
4. Your Energy Bills Have Increased
Because your HVAC system will be working harder to cool the air in your home, you are very likely to see an increase in your electric bill. The lack of refrigerant causes your unit to run longer to adequately cool the space in your home. The longer the unit runs, the more you will be spending on cooling during the hottest months of the year.
Call the Professionals at Quick Servant for HVAC Services
Recognizing the symptoms of low refrigerant in AC units can prevent costly repairs and keep your home comfortable during the hottest months. Refrigerant exposure can be potentially hazardous and should always be handled by a professional, so don’t take matters into your own hands. At Quick Servant, our team of HVAC professionals can quickly address any refrigerant issue with your air conditioning and heating system and ensure your home is comfortable and safe. Give us a call today to learn more about air conditioning maintenance or schedule your appointment online.