How To Tell If Freon Is Leaking From Your Air Conditioner
No one wants their air conditioner to break in the middle of a heatwave. Not only is it a major inconvenience, but it can also be expensive to fix. One of the most common issues that AC units experience is a Freon leak. But how can you tell if your air conditioner is leaking Freon? We’re here to help. Keep reading to find out.
What Is Freon?
Freon is a type of refrigerant that helps your AC unit cool your home by absorbing heat from the inside and releasing it outside. It’s essential for the proper functioning of your AC unit, which is why it’s so important to keep an eye out for any leaks.
Signs of a Freon Leak
Warm Air Coming From Your AC Unit
If you notice that the air coming from your AC unit is warm, it could be a sign that Freon is leaking. This is because, without enough Freon, your AC unit won’t be able to properly remove heat from the air, resulting in warmer than usual air being released into your home. While this may not seem like a big deal at first, it can lead to a lot of problems down the road.
Higher Than Normal Energy Bills
If you’ve been seeing a sudden and suspiciously high spike in your energy bills, it might not be the work of the energy company- it could be that your AC unit is leaking Freon. Freon is a key component in air conditioning units, and when it leaks, it causes the AC unit to work overtime to try and make up for the loss. This extra work manifests in higher energy bills for the household.
Hissing Or Bubbling Sounds Coming From Your AC Unit
If your AC unit starts making hissing or bubbling sounds, it’s a pretty clear sign that Freon is leaking. Freon is a refrigerant used in AC units to help cool the air. When it leaks, it can cause the AC unit to overheat and eventually break down.
Ice Forming On Your AC Unit
One of the most visible signs that your AC unit is leaking Freon is ice forming on it. This usually happens when the Freon level gets too low and the AC unit starts to overcompensate by cooling the air too much. As a result, moisture in the air can freeze, leading to an icy build-up on your AC unit. If you see ice forming on your AC unit, it’s best to call a technician right away so they can fix the leak and replenish the Freon levels.
AC Unit Is Over 10 Years Old
If your AC unit is more than 10 years old, there’s a good chance it’s leaking Freon. As units age, they become increasingly likely to develop leaks, so if you’ve got an older unit, be on the lookout for any of the above signs. Of course, the best way to prevent a Freon leak is to replace your AC unit before it gets too old. But if you’re not ready to do that just yet, make sure to keep an eye on your unit and call a repairman at the first sign of a problem.
How Do You Prevent Freon Leak?
The best way to prevent a Freon leak is to have your AC unit regularly serviced by a professional. They’ll be able to spot any potential problems and fix them before they turn into bigger issues. Servicing your AC unit once a year should be enough to keep it in good shape and prevent any Freon leaks.
As temperatures start to rise, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to break down. Unfortunately, this is a common issue that many homeowners face during the summer months. One of the most common reasons for an AC breakdown is a Freon leak. But how can you tell if your air conditioner is leaking Freon? Keep an eye out for these telltale signs: decreased cooling effectiveness, ice buildup around the unit, strange hissing or bubbling noises, and increased utility bills. If you notice any of these, call a professional HVAC technician right away for repairs. In the meantime, try to avoid using your AC unit until the repairs have been made to prevent further damage.
Do You Need an HVAC Installer You Can Trust?
Superior Mechanical Services, Inc. began in 1948 as a family-owned business with a vision to provide value-minded service with a down-to-earth approach to customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As the premier Commercial and Residential HVAC Service provider for Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton, Superior Mechanical can do it all, from heating and air conditioning services to boiler services, to plumbing services. Our technicians are certified professionals who will ensure every part of your project is done right using a careful checklist to guide and test each step. At the end of your appointment, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your new system and give you tips on maintenance so it lasts for years to come. Contact us today for amazing service tomorrow!
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