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Refrigerant leaks are one of the more common troubles that you may run into with your air conditioning system. These leaks aren’t a minor issue, and you can’t simply “refill” the lost refrigerant on your own. To understand why this problem requires professional AC repair in Forsyth, GA, we’ll take a look at how refrigerant works in your AC and why losing it to leaks might mean the end of the cooling system if it’s not fixed.
What Is Refrigerant?
Refrigerant is a chemical blend used in air conditioning systems to absorb and release heat, moving it out of a house and releasing it outdoors. Contrary to what some might think, refrigerant doesn’t get used up like fuel. Instead, it cycles through an AC system in a closed loop, transforming from a gas to a liquid and back again as it does its job.
The Importance of the AC’s Charge
An air conditioner is designed to run with a specific amount of refrigerant, known as its “charge.” This precise level is essential for the AC to work. Too much or too little refrigerant will not only lead to poor performance but serious mechanical problems. When your AC is properly sealed and functioning correctly, the refrigerant should last the lifetime of the unit and not need refilling. (Don’t listen to anyone who claims your AC needs to be “topped off” annually.)
Why Refrigerant Leaks Are Serious
1. Decreased Efficiency
When refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, your AC unit will struggle to cool your home effectively. You might notice that it takes longer to reach your desired temperature, or that it never gets there at all. This inefficiency forces the system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
2. Increased Energy Costs
A struggling air conditioner consumes more electricity as it attempts to cool your home with less refrigerant. This increased energy use will drive up your bills.
3. Potential Health Hazards
Some types of refrigerants can be harmful if they come into contact with skin or are inhaled. Leaks inside the house can expose you and your family to these chemicals, posing potential health risks.
4. Damage to the Compressor
The most serious consequence of refrigerant leaks is damage to the AC’s compressor. The compressor is the heart of your AC, responsible for moving refrigerant through the coils. Operating with low refrigerant levels will cause the compressor to overheat and eventually burn out. Replacing a compressor is expensive—often making replacing the entire AC the more economical choice.
Refrigerant Leaks Must Have Professional Repairs
You absolutely must have a licensed professional handle repairing refrigerant leaks. Only HVAC experts can locate the leaks and properly seal them. You also need to have professionals handle recharging the AC by restoring it to its original refrigerant charge. An amateur might accidentally put in too much refrigerant, and this is as damaging for the AC as too little. Finally, only professional HVAC technicians have the licensing required to handle refrigerants.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, don’t wait. Contact us to schedule a professional inspection and repair. Ensuring your AC system is leak-free and properly charged will keep your home comfortable and your system running efficiently for years to come.