How to Tell if the AC Is Leaking Refrigerant and Needs Repair
A well-functioning air conditioning system is often taken for granted—until problems arise. One of the most common yet serious issues homeowners face is a refrigerant leak. This hidden problem can drastically reduce cooling efficiency, lead to higher energy bills, and potentially cause significant damage to the AC system. It can even affect your comfort and health. Whether the home isn't cooling as effectively as it used to or energy bills have increased unexpectedly, recognizing the signs of a refrigerant leak is crucial for addressing the issue before it turns into an expensive AC repair or system failure.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Ice forming on the evaporator coils is one of the most obvious indicators of a refrigerant leak. When refrigerant levels drop, this creates a pressure imbalance, causing the remaining refrigerant to expand excessively. This sudden temperature drop causes moisture in the air to freeze on the coils instead of being removed through condensation.
As ice builds up, it acts as an insulator, disrupting the system's ability to transfer heat between the air and refrigerant. This not only reduces cooling efficiency but can also cause the system to fail entirely if left unchecked. While issues such as restricted airflow or dirty filters can also cause frozen coils, a refrigerant leak is often the primary cause. Seeking professional help right away is crucial to avoid permanent damage to the HVAC system.
The AC Is Not Cooling Properly
If the air conditioning system is no longer cooling the space effectively, it's a strong sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant plays a vital role in absorbing and releasing heat during the AC’s evaporation and condensation cycle. When the refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, the system’s ability to remove heat from indoor air is compromised. As a result, the air coming from the vents may not feel as cool, even with the thermostat set to a lower temperature.
To compensate for the reduced refrigerant levels, the air conditioner may run for extended periods, increasing cooling cycles. The system works harder to maintain the desired temperature, consuming more energy. This leads to higher electricity costs and puts additional strain on the components. A properly functioning AC should maintain consistent cooling cycles; when these cycles become longer than usual, it typically signals that refrigerant levels have dropped below the manufacturer’s specifications due to a leak.
Unusual Sounds
A refrigerant leak can also be identified by unusual sounds coming from the AC system. When refrigerant escapes through a crack or hole, it creates distinctive noises. The most common sound is a high-pitched hissing or whistling, similar to air escaping from a balloon. This occurs when the refrigerant leaks out in its gaseous state.
If the leak is near the evaporator coil or liquid line, you may hear bubbling or gurgling sounds. These noises are caused by refrigerant transitioning between its liquid and gaseous states, creating turbulence in the system. Additionally, if refrigerant levels fall too low, the system may struggle to maintain proper pressure, leading to clicking or rattling sounds from inefficient components. These sounds should never be ignored and should prompt an immediate professional inspection, as operating the system with a refrigerant leak can cause significant damage to essential components.
About AAA Modern Air
AAA Modern Air has been a family-owned and operated company since 1969. They offer air conditioning repairs, service, maintenance, and installations. Call them for cooling services in the Fort Lauderdale area.
