Staying Cool This Summer? If Not, You Might Have A Refrigerant Problem

It’s July in Dallas/Fort Worth, and most of us are relying heavily on our air conditioning systems.

As the heat rises, a common question we often hear at Admirable Air is, “Does my AC need a refrigerant refill?”

This is a crucial question that many homeowners face, especially when their air conditioner starts to show signs of trouble. Let’s examine the details and clarify any that might be confusing.

Refrigerant: What Is It?

Refrigerant, often referred to as coolant, is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system. In simple terms, refrigerant is the substance that makes air conditioning possible. It flows through the coils in your AC unit, changing from a gas to a liquid and back again as it absorbs and releases heat.

This process is essential for maintaining a cool indoor environment. The refrigerant level in your HVAC system must remain constant to function properly.

Are All Refrigerants The Same?

The type of refrigerant your AC uses depends on its make, model, and age. Units manufactured before 2010 likely use R-22 refrigerant, which was the standard for many years. However, due to environmental concerns, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned the production and installation of new R-22 appliances.

As a result, newer systems use R-410A, a more eco-friendly option.

You can check the nameplate on your outdoor condenser unit to determine which refrigerant your AC uses. This information is typically listed there. If you need assistance, Admirable Air is here to help you identify your refrigerant type and provide expert advice.

Can’t I Just Do It Myself?

While DIY projects can sometimes save you some dollars, handling refrigerants is not something you just look up on YouTube. Given their hazardous nature, several laws govern their use.

Mishandling refrigerants can lead to numerous health and physical risks, such as toxicity, blindness, asphyxiation, flammability, and more. Because of these dangers, a certified professional must perform refrigerant management, from detecting and repairing leaks to disposing of old refrigerants and adding new ones.

Not only is handling refrigerants perilous, but it’s also illegal if you’re not authorized to do so. At Admirable Air, we have the proper training and certification to manage refrigerants safely and legally. We ensure that your refrigerant levels are optimal and that your AC system functions efficiently and safely.

How Can I Spot A Leak?

Since refrigerant operates within a closed system, its levels should remain constant. If you notice warm air from your AC, a refrigerant top-up may be necessary—but not before fixing any leaks. Here are some common signs of a refrigerant leak:

Blowing Warm Air: If your AC is blowing warm or hot air instead of cool, it could be due to low refrigerant levels.

Prolonged Cooling Times: If your home takes longer than usual to cool down, it might indicate that your AC is struggling because of insufficient refrigerant.

Ice on the Evaporator Coil: Ice formation on your AC’s evaporator coil is a clear sign of a refrigerant issue.

High Electricity Bills: Unexpectedly high electricity bills can suggest that your AC is working harder than it should due to low refrigerant levels.

Hissing or Bubbling Sounds: If you hear hissing or bubbling noises near the refrigerant lines, it strongly indicates a leak.

You should never ignore these signs, as they can lead to more significant problems if not addressed promptly. What Should I Do Now? If you suspect your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak, it’s essential to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:

Turn Off Your AC: Switch your thermostat from ‘COOL’ to ‘OFF’ to prevent further damage to your system.

Defrost Frozen Components: Set your thermostat fan to ‘ON’ for a few hours to defrost any frozen parts.

Contact a Professional: Reach out to Admirable Air. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the issue, locate the leak, and determine the best course of action to fix it.

Final Thoughts

Air conditioners need precise refrigerant levels to function properly. Mixing different types of refrigerants or adding the wrong ones can cause significant damage to your system and pose serious safety risks. It is crucial to trust Admirable Air with any refrigerant-related tasks.

If you have any concerns about your air conditioner’s refrigerant levels or suspect a leak, don’t wait. Contact Admirable Air at 972-282-5150. Our team of experts is ready to help you keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. We promise to restore that refreshing blast of icy air you desperately crave during these hot Texas summers!