Signs Your AC is Low on Refrigerant
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 to look out for.
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.
2. There Is Ice Buildup on Your AC System
The buildup of ice on the refrigerant line is another sign your HVAC system may be low on refrigerant. This line is made of copper that can develop a coat of frozen crystals due to problems with the evaporator coil. This coil allows the refrigerant to flow through the system and will become far too cold when there is a leak, causing surrounding moisture to become icy. The backflow of refrigerant will eventually cause damage to the system’s compressor as well.
3. Your AC System Is Taking Too Long to Cool
Leaking refrigerant will make your air conditioner 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.
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
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.