Summer months in Brooklyn can be sweltering, and a malfunctioning air conditioner can make it unbearable. One of the most common issues that homeowners face is AC refrigerant leaks. These leaks can cause symptoms ranging from extended cooling to increased indoor humidity. Here, we will discuss what causes these leaks and how they can be identified.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy AC repair service in Brooklyn, reach our team at Iceberg Mechanical. We have years of experience in the HVAC industry and take great pride in providing high-quality service to our clients. Be it an air conditioner leak or any other HVAC issue, we have the expertise to provide quick and reliable solutions. Contact us today!
What Causes AC Refrigerant Leaks?
AC refrigerant leaks can stem from corrosion, vibration, wear and tear, and poor installation or maintenance practices. Regardless of the cause, a refrigerant leak can be detrimental to the performance of your AC unit and should be addressed as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common causes of AC refrigerant leaks:
Improper Installation
Refrigerant leaks in your air conditioning system can result from improper installation. When you let an amateur technician or an inexperienced DIYer install your AC unit, it increases the likelihood of refrigerant leaks. Poorly installed units can cause refrigerant lines to rub against sharp edges, which can lead to small punctures and, eventually, a leak.
Metal Erosion
Refrigerant leaks in air conditioning systems can be caused by metal erosion due to various factors such as corrosion on the coils or connections, age, wear and tear, and poor maintenance practices. Preventative measures such as regular maintenance and inspections can help detect potential issues before they become larger leaks that could cost homeowners hundreds of dollars in repairs.
Factory Defects
AC systems commonly experience refrigerant leaks due to factory defects. If you ever suspect that your AC unit may have a factory defect, it’s important to consult with a professional technician who can inspect and troubleshoot your system. Our team of experienced technicians is well-versed in identifying and addressing factory defects in AC units, ensuring that your system runs at optimum efficiency.
Wear and Tear
Of course, regular wear and tear can also cause refrigerant leaks in your AC unit. This is especially true if your system is older or has not been properly maintained over the years. Over time, the constant pressure on the refrigerant lines can cause them to crack or develop small holes, leading to a loss of refrigerant and reduced performance from your AC unit.
Symptoms of AC Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerants are essential for an AC unit to cool your home, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of a refrigerant leak. They can come from different sources and can manifest in various ways. Some symptoms include the following:
Longer Cooling Time
If your air conditioning system is taking longer than usual to cool down your home and you’ve ruled out a clogged air filter or algae buildup on the evaporator coil as the source of the problem, it could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. An AC system low on refrigerant will take longer to cool down because the system has to work harder with less refrigerant.
Higher Utility Bills
If you’re seeing a sudden and unexplained spike in your energy bills, it could be caused by a refrigerant leak in your air conditioning system. This issue can make your AC unit work harder than necessary to maintain the desired temperature, which leads to higher electricity consumption and inflated utility bills.
To avoid wasting money and harming the environment, call an HVAC professional like our team at Iceberg Mechanical who can diagnose and repair any issues with your AC system.
Increased Humidity Indoors
An AC repair leak can lead to increased indoor humidity levels causing discomfort and health issues for homeowners. The refrigerant leak reduces the AC’s ability to remove moisture from the air, making it hard for the system to maintain comfortable humidity levels. It is imperative to have your AC unit inspected for leaks regularly by a professional HVAC technician to avoid any further damage to your cooling system and maintain peace of mind.
Hissing Sound at Outdoor Unit
If you notice a hissing noise coming from your air conditioner’s outdoor unit, it could be due to a refrigerant leak. This can lead to warm air coming from your vents, reduced cooling performance, and ice buildup on the evaporator coil. To solve this problem, call an expert HVAC technician for peace of mind.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils are a frequent issue caused by an AC refrigerant leak that can lead to reduced airflow and increased energy consumption. This hinders the cooling process and results in ice buildup on the AC unit. Therefore, you must call an HVAC technician immediately if you encounter such symptoms with your air conditioning system.
Is AC Refrigerant Leak Dangerous?
AC refrigerant leaks can be hazardous as they expose individuals to harmful chemicals, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea. Most importantly, they are harmful to the environment.
Suspect a leak? Shut off your AC and call a professional right away. Not only will they diagnose and repair the issue, but they will also ensure safety measures are in place to avoid any potential harm. Never fix an AC refrigerant leak independently, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment. Trust a professional to handle the job for peace of mind and safety.
Need Expert Help? Call Iceberg Mechanical Today!
At Iceberg Mechanical, you can count on expert HVAC technicians to handle your AC refrigerant leak with precision and care. Our team has the latest tools and techniques, ensuring speedy and effective solutions for all AC repair issues. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy environment and strive to provide eco-friendly solutions that benefit our clients and the planet.
Contact us today for reliable AC repair services, and let us help you maintain optimal comfort in your home or office.
