How to Tell if the AC Needs Refrigerant Leak Repair
Central air conditioners depend on the proper amount of refrigerant to remove heat from a building and keep indoor spaces cool and comfortable. When AC refrigerant escapes from the coils or lines, performance drops, and components can be damaged if the issue is ignored. This guide highlights some common indicators of a refrigerant leak and the need for refrigerant leak repair, including frozen evaporator coils, poor cooling, and unusual noises.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
A frozen evaporator coil is one of the most visible clues that something is wrong with air conditioning refrigerant levels. The evaporator coil, located inside the air handler, is where the refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air. When the amount of refrigerant circulating is too low, pressure and temperature in the coil drop. Moisture from the air can then freeze on the coil’s surface instead of draining away as condensate.
Ice buildup may first appear as light frost on the copper lines or fins and can eventually grow into a solid block of ice if the system continues to run. This frozen layer acts like insulation, preventing the coil from absorbing heat and forcing the air conditioner to work much harder. In severe cases, airflow through the indoor unit can be almost completely blocked, leading to warm air at the vents and potential damage to the compressor. While other problems can also cause icing, a refrigerant leak is a frequent culprit that needs professional diagnosis.
The AC Is Not Cooling Properly
Another strong sign of a refrigerant leak is a noticeable change in cooling performance. When air conditioner refrigerant levels are low, there is not enough capacity to remove heat from indoor air efficiently. Supply vents may blow air that feels only slightly cool or even warm, even though the unit is running. Rooms can take much longer to reach set temperatures, if they get there at all.
Longer cooling cycles are common in this situation. Because the system must run for extended periods, energy consumption increases, leading to higher energy bills. This kind of inefficiency can stress mechanical parts and shorten system life. If filters are clean, vents are open, and the thermostat is working correctly, but the system still struggles to cool, a refrigerant issue in the air conditioning system should be suspected and checked by a technician.
Unusual Sounds
Refrigerant moving through lines and coils is normally quiet. When a refrigerant leak develops, however, sound often changes. Pressurized gas escaping through tiny holes or cracks in the copper lines or coils can create a hissing noise. If liquid and vapor mix at the leak site, the result may sound more like gurgling or bubbling.
These noises can occur near the outdoor condenser, at the indoor air handler, or wherever the leak is located along the refrigerant circuit. While some airflow and mechanical sounds are normal, new or persistent hissing and bubbling around refrigerant lines should be treated as a warning. Turning the system off and arranging for prompt refrigerant leak repair helps protect the compressor and prevents further loss of refrigerant into the environment.
About License to Chill
License to Chill is proudly family-owned and operated, with over 20 years of experience offering top-rated cooling and indoor air quality services. With 24/7 service from their bilingual technicians, it’s easy to see why the people of Pompano Beach and the neighboring areas choose them for their AC needs. Call today to schedule AC refrigerant leak repair in Pompano Beach, FL.
