Air conditioner refrigerant leaks are a common problem that can also result in expensive air conditioner repairs if they’re not caught early. When you notice the signs that you may have a leak, it’s important to contact an experienced HVAC technician immediately to address the issue.
Because of the refrigerant circuit’s coil structure and the highly pressured coolant running through it, leaks can form. Here are some signs to watch for, common causes of leaks, and some information about how they’re repaired from our HVAC professionals at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating in Birmingham, Alabama. When you choose us, you’ll appreciate that we’re on time, or you don’t pay a dime.
Common Signs of an Air Conditioner Coolant Leak
If you notice these signs, you might have a refrigerant leak:
- No cold air blowing from your air conditioner
- Warm spots in your home
- High humidity while the air conditioner is on
- Unexplained utility bill spikes
- Strange hissing sounds
- Ice buildup on the unit
These signs can also indicate a different problem with your air conditioner. If you notice these signs, call us at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating for prompt service.
Common Causes of Coolant Leaks
Refrigerant removes heat from your home’s air. When your air conditioner has a coolant leak, your AC won’t function properly to keep your home cool. Your AC will work harder to meet your temperature demands, leading to higher energy bills and an uncomfortable indoor environment. Below are the most common causes of a leak.
Normal Wear and Tear
While your air conditioning system is durable and can last for years, the parts and components eventually wear down or corrode. This is because your air conditioner has to work harder to keep your home cool. Wear and tear can cause problems that lead to a leak. Worn rubber seals around your unit’s service valves, weakened connections, and other similar problems can all cause leaks.
Pinhole Leaks
Air conditioner coolant circuits are made from copper. Formic acid, which forms naturally, can erode copper tubing and cause a pinhole leak over time. Even though they are small, they can still be promptly addressed. If you have a pinhole leak, you should contact our HVAC professionals at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating as soon as possible.
Faulty Installation
An HVAC technician must follow specific steps when installing a new air conditioning system. If they make mistakes, your system can develop a leak. Because of this, it’s important for you to carefully research your HVAC company to ensure they do quality work. At One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating, our technicians are thoroughly trained and know how to install systems correctly every time.
Equipment Defects
In some cases, a refrigerant leak can be caused by factory defects. During the manufacturing process, occasional issues can occur and lead to defects in the equipment. You might be able to get a replacement for a defective component under your system’s manufacturer’s warranty. It’s important to replace it as soon as you can when a defective part causes a refrigerant leak.
How is a Coolant Leak Repaired?
Whether it makes sense to repair a coolant leak or to replace your air conditioning unit depends on the leak’s size and location. A technician might be able to repair a small leak by replacing a leaking valve, soldering the coolant line, or using a special sealant designed for this purpose. Sealants are generally not recommended and are only a short-term remedy.
For large or hard-to-reach leaks in major parts, including condenser or evaporator coils, repairs are typically not recommended because they can fail. Instead, replacing the failed part or the air conditioner itself might be the best option.
A few reasons to replace the part or unit include:
- More cost-effective – If you have a large, hard-to-reach leak or several leaks, repairing them may cost just as much or more than replacing the part or unit.
- More reliable – Repaired parts can develop a leak again in the future. When you replace a part with a new one, it will be more durable.
- Greater efficiency – When your system has low coolant levels, it must work harder to keep your home cool. This can result in reduced efficiency and higher energy costs. Replacing your unit should increase efficiency and reduce your energy bills.
- Better for the environment – Older coolants can deplete ozone and are more harmful to the environment. When you replace your unit, it will use newer, more environmentally-friendly cooling agents.
Get Help From Our HVAC Professionals
If you believe your air conditioner may have developed a leak, it’s important to contact our experienced HVAC technicians immediately. Your technician will identify the leak using specialized tools and help you determine whether it can be repaired or if you should replace the part or unit. Finally, they can recharge your system with the right refrigerant.
In many cases, a leak will require a part or unit replacement for long-term reliability and greater efficiency. If you believe you have a refrigerant leak, you should call our experienced HVAC technicians at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating in Birmingham. We’re always on time, or you don’t pay a dime! Contact us today to schedule your service by calling (833) 918-3094.
