Refrigerant leaks are one of the most common air conditioner problems. The refrigerant travels through the condenser and evaporator coils. Corrosion, a loose fitting, or damage to the tubing may cause the refrigerant to leak. Pay attention to these signs that your Philadelphia, PA, home’s air conditioner has low refrigerant levels.
Frequent or Constant Cycling
If it seems like your air conditioner is always running, but it’s not extremely hot outside, you could have a refrigerant leak. Low refrigerant levels reduce the air conditioner’s ability to transfer heat out of your home. The unit will have to run more frequently, but it will never reach the set point on your thermostat. Only a certified technician should measure refrigerant levels, repair the leak, and add more refrigerant, explains the Department of Energy.
Warm Air Blowing from Vents
Place your hand over one or more of the vents in different rooms of your home. If they’re blowing warm air, your air conditioner has a problem. First, check the air filter. A dirty filter may be the cause. Another possibility is low refrigerant levels. The air is warm because there’s not enough refrigerant to absorb heat from it. Your home may also get too humid. That’s because when the air cools, moisture condenses from it.
Ice Buildup or Puddles
Check your air conditioner for ice buildup. When there are low refrigerant levels, the evaporator coil may develop layers of frost or ice. The evaporator coil is in the part of the air conditioner located in your home. You may also see frost or ice buildup on the copper tubing on the outdoor unit. This tube leads to the indoor unit. Check for a puddle near the indoor unit. When the air conditioner turns off, the ice buildup on the evaporator coil melts.
For more details about the signs of low refrigerant levels, take a look at AirMaster Heating & Cooling Specialists’ air conditioner repairs, or get in touch with us today.
