Why Is My AC Refrigerant Leaking?

With summer in full swing, a well-functioning air conditioner is essential for maintaining consistent indoor comfort. That makes discovering a refrigerant leak in your system even more frustrating and concerning.

In this blog post, the cooling experts at McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning explore why air conditioners sometimes leak refrigerant, common causes of these leaks, and what you can do if you find yourself in this situation.

Why ACs Leak Refrigerant

AC systems leak refrigerant for various reasons, including wear and tear or damage to the unit’s components. These leaks can lead to decreased cooling efficiency and potential damage to the air conditioner if left untreated.

Common Causes of Refrigerant Leaks in AC Systems

Refrigerant leaks are a common issue that can arise for several different reasons, the most common of which are:

• Corrosion of the coils: Over time, the evaporator and condenser coils can corrode, leading to small holes through which refrigerant can escape.
• Factory defects: Manufacturing defects can sometimes result in weak points in the system that may develop leaks over time.
• Poor installation: Improper AC installation can lead to issues with the refrigerant lines, causing leaks.
• Wear and tear: Normal wear and tear on the AC unit’s components, such as the joints and fittings, can result in leaks.
• Physical damage: Any physical damage to the AC, such as punctures or cracks, can cause refrigerant to leak out.

What To Do if Your AC Leaks Refrigerant

If you suspect that your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage to your equipment and ensure it functions efficiently. Here’s what you should do:

Inspect the AC

• Turn off the AC: Before inspecting the system, make sure your air conditioner is turned off to prevent potential hazards.
• Check for visible signs: Look for any signs of refrigerant leaks, such as oil stains or frost on the refrigerant lines or components.
• Listen for hissing sounds: A hissing sound near the refrigerant lines can indicate a leak.

Avoid DIY Repairs

• Safety first: Handling refrigerant requires specialized equipment and training. Attempting repairs yourself can be dangerous.
• Professional tools: Professional technicians have the right tools and expertise to repair refrigerant leaks safely and effectively.
• Warranty concerns: DIY repairs can void manufacturer warranties, leading to additional costs down the line.

Contact a Professional Technician

• Find a certified technician: Look for a licensed and certified HVAC technician to inspect and repair your AC unit.
• Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment as soon as possible to minimize downtime and prevent further issues.
• Get a diagnosis: Allow the technician to diagnose the problem and provide a detailed explanation of the necessary repairs.

Schedule AC Repairs With McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning

If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, don’t wait until it leads to more significant problems. McCrea Heating & Air Conditioning is proud to offer the quick AC repair solutions that families in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania deserve.

With over 80 years of local service experience and an A+ rating on Angi, you can count on us to provide the prompt, professional solutions you need to quickly regain total functionality.

Schedule air conditioning repair to get your refrigerant leak under control by contacting our team today.