Why Refrigerant Leaks Are So Serious
It may seem minor, but a refrigerant leak from your AC system is actually a very serious warning sign. If your air conditioning isn’t performing as well as it should, or if you’ve noticed fluid leaking from your sealed unit, it’s time to call for air conditioning repair in Miami, FL.
What Is Refrigerant?
Depending on your AC unit, refrigerant can be in liquid or gas form. It is contained within the copper coils of the air conditioning unit. Types of refrigerants include:
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
- Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
- Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Freon, also known as R22, is a type of HCFC that is harmful to the environment and to people. Freon is no longer produced; however, many older AC units still contain Freon. Freon is toxic and should not be touched or inhaled, as inhalation can be fatal. Only trained experts with the proper safety equipment should handle this type of refrigerant.
HFCs have replaced R22 and are safer, but only technicians who are fully trained in air conditioning repair in Miami, FL, should handle or dispose of AC refrigerant.
How Does Refrigerant Work?
Air conditioners don’t cool air the way heaters heat air. When you enjoy that cool air blowing through your home, you’re actually enjoying the absence of heat, and refrigerant makes that possible.
However, low refrigerant levels prevent your AC from working properly. Leakage and improper charging are the two main causes of low refrigerant. When this happens, you need professional air conditioning repair in Miami, FL.
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak
In addition to seeing liquid leaking from your AC unit, there are other signs that can indicate a refrigerant leak, such as:
- Warm air pumping out of your AC instead of cool
- Ice building up in the condenser or refrigerant lines
- An HVAC company needing to add refrigerant during a tune-up
- Your AC taking longer to cool the home, or some rooms never feeling cool
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to turn off your AC unit immediately. Continuing to run the air conditioner when refrigerant has leaked out can cause more serious problems, which may require major repair or replacement of the unit.
Weathermakers Air Conditioning can take care of refrigerant leaks and other AC problems you may be having. We’ve provided residents of Miami, FL, and the surrounding area with reliable, quality service since 1990. Contact us for a free estimate today.
