Refrigerant is a vital component of your air conditioner, so leaks affect its performance. Loose connections, deterioration of metal components, incorrect installation and wear and tear are common causes of refrigerant leaks in Yorktown, VA. Here are some signs your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak:
Hissing Sounds
Cracks or holes in coils that circulate refrigerant in an AC system cause leaks. While hissing sounds can indicate several problems, one of the causes is a refrigerant leak. More significant leaks may also produce gurgling sounds, which you shouldn’t ignore.
Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air
Refrigerant is responsible for sending warm air outside your home. When your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, it fails to cool your home correctly. If you notice warm air from your vents, it may indicate low refrigerant levels.
Higher Than Usual Electric Bills
Refrigerant leaks can make your air conditioner work harder than usual to keep your home comfortable. If you notice a sudden increase in your electric bill, it may be a sign you need an AC repair. Hire an experienced HVAC professional to inspect the system for refrigerant leaks and make any necessary AC repairs.
Water Leaks
Your air conditioning unit will likely lose pressure when the refrigerant levels are low. It then causes freezing coils, overflowing the drain pan and spilling excessive water as it melts. Water leaks in the AC system can cause other issues like corrosion and water damage, so it’s best to seek professional help.
AC System Taking Longer to Cool Your Space
When your AC system is leaking refrigerant, it loses its ability to attain the set temperatures efficiently and in a timely manner. The air conditioner then runs longer than usual to achieve the set temperatures. Improve your AC system’s ability to reach the proper home temperatures by fixing leaks and refilling the refrigerant levels.
If your refrigerant leaks because of old age, it may be time to replace your system. Annual maintenance can help to prevent refrigerant leaks. Call us at Kearney & Sons today for professional preventive air conditioning maintenance.
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