An HVAC system leaking fluids, whether visible or not, is a reason for concern. Your AC is an example. It cools your home during a hot summer day because it absorbs heat and generates cool air. This technology is made possible by the use of a refrigerant, which is a substance or mixture, usually, a fluid that undergoes phase transitions from liquid to gas and back again. The refrigerant is an essential component of your air conditioning system that, without it, your AC couldn’t cool your home.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your respected HVAC company in Bloomington MN. We’re a licensed contractor offering the finest AC repair services, including refrigerant leaks.
Dangers to Health and the Environment
Nearly everyone is aware that an air conditioner leaking refrigerant is dangerous to the environment, but not every person knows that it’s also a health and safety risk.
Some of the most known refrigerants today, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), are harmful to the environment. R22, which is used in older air conditioning systems, is presently being prohibited from manufacturing and importation because of its ozone-depleting consequences.
A refrigerant is a tasteless, mostly odorless gas. When inhaled for an extended period, it can compromise oxygen absorption in the cells and lungs. Limited to moderate exposure, on the other hand, such as a spill on your skin or inhaling near an open container, can cause symptoms, including:
- irritation of the skin, eyes, ears, and throat
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- cough
- dizziness
Refrigerant Poisoning
When a person is exposed to leaking refrigerant, he is at risk of refrigerant poisoning. Severe refrigerant poisoning indicates symptoms such as:
- seizures
- irregular heartbeat
- vomiting of blood
- fluid buildup or bleeding in the lungs
- burning sensation in the esophagus
- difficult, labored breathing
- and loss of consciousness
In sporadic but extreme cases, severe refrigerant poisoning can lead to loss of life.
How Does an AC Leak Refrigerant?
One of the myths concerning refrigerant is that an AC uses a little bit of coolant each time it cycles, causing it to leak out over time slowly. But this is very far from the truth, which is, a refrigerant consistently charges itself. Therefore, there is no need for your AC’s refrigerant levels to decline unless there is a leak somewhere in the system. If you notice a steady decline in your AC’s cooling power, it’s either the system isn’t correctly installed, or there is corrosion of metal parts, or there are factory defects within the unit. Of course, without the right amount of refrigerant, your system won’t have the means to cool your home effectively.
How Do I Know My AC is Leaking Refrigerant?
Subpar Cooling
When your AC doesn’t have the right amount of refrigerant, it will take much longer for your home to cool down, since there isn’t enough substance to remove the heat. Leaking coolant will cause discomfort as your home does not reach your preferred comfort levels.
Freezing AC
Your AC is designed to cool your home, and if it somehow produces ice, you know there’s something wrong with the system. One of the reasons your AC freezes up is because it leaks refrigerant. When your system is in great shape, the coils absorb the heat with the help of the coolant. However, without the right amount of refrigerant, the coils cannot absorb the heat, causing the system to freeze.
Unusually High Energy Bills
When leaking refrigerant, your air conditioner is forced to work harder than usual, using more energy in the process, causing a substantial increase in your electricity bills. Failure to address this issue can lead to severe consequences, including damage to the compressor, a very costly component to repair or replace.
Need Help Fixing a Leaky AC? Call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning
Dealing with an AC that leaks refrigerant should not be taken lightly. Not only is it inconvenient, but it also poses a danger to your health. To ensure your cooling system keeps the refrigerant inside the unit, give us a call. We can put an end to your refrigerant problems and restore the comfort in your home. We are your friendly Richfield AC repair company.