AC Refrigerant Leak Repair in Fort Worth, TX

We Serve Fort Worth, Saginaw, Blue Mound, Lake Worth, Keller, Haslet, Watauga, Richland Hills, North Richland Hills, Justin, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, Colleyville, Southlake, and Grapevine

An air conditioning system uses refrigerant to cool a space, but few know its purpose or what type of refrigerant their air conditioning system uses. AC refrigerant is a compound capable of transitioning from liquid to gas and from gas to liquid. During the process, it absorbs heat from indoor air and dispels it outdoors with the help of other AC components.

Some of the most commonly used refrigerants in AC systems are R22 (Freon) and R-410A (Puron), but they are expected to be replaced by R-454B soon for their lower environmental impact. Nevertheless, older units still widely use Freon and Puron.

Despite being non-flammable, a Freon leak is a serious concern because it compromises indoor air quality, which can have adverse health effects. An AC compressor leak will also cause the appliance to work inefficiently, increasing electricity bills.

Freon has no odor, so there is no smell hinting at a leak. Without a diagnostic test, the property owner may not notice a problem. For this reason, regular inspections are crucial.

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AC Refrigerant Leak: Signs and Causes

Since air conditioners are closed systems, refrigerant levels should remain consistent. The only reason the level will lower is if there is a problem. 

A refrigerant leak can be the result of wear and tear over time. The joints inside the unit may become weaker or corroded as time passes. However, factory defects and improper installation are also common causes of leaks.

The following signs can indicate that the unit is leaking refrigerant:

  • Higher electricity bills – Insufficient refrigerant forces the AC to work overtime to reach the desired indoor temperature. This inefficient system uses more energy, resulting in higher electricity bills.

  • Poor cooling capability – The unit might not be able to produce cool air. Warm air coming from the vents indicate that a problem and a leak test is necessary.

  • Frost or ice – A refrigerant leak may freeze the unit’s evaporator coil, which develops a covering of frost or ice.

  • Puddles – Once the appliance shuts off, the frost or ice might melt, resulting in puddles on the floor.

  • Odd sounds – Units that produce a cracking or hissing sound should be checked for coil punctures.

  • Compromised air flow – If the AC doesn’t blow air as strongly as it used to, low refrigerant levels might be the cause.

  • Humidity problems – An inefficient AC can’t dispel indoor humidity.

Health Dangers that AC Refrigerant Leaks Can Cause

Although refrigerants used in air conditioners aren’t acutely toxic, a leak can still be potentially dangerous to those exposed to these substances, especially in larger quantities.

Symptoms of refrigerant poisoning include the following:

  • Shortness of breath

  • Poor concentration

  • Headaches

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Allergic reaction

  • Skin and eye irritation

  • Fluid buildup in the lungs

Direct contact can also cause chemical burns or frostbite. Reacting promptly to these symptoms is vital to avoid more serious adverse effects.

An AC refrigerant leak can be inconvenient for residents in the Fort Worth area.

With 15 years of experience, Fix My Air DFW understands local residential and commercial property owners’ HVAC concerns and is ready to address any air conditioning issue. Those suspecting their AC might be leaking should contact Fix My Air DFW promptly to prevent further complications.