When summer heat arrives, your air conditioning system becomes one of the most important appliances in your commercial space. It keeps you cool and comfortable during the hottest days but requires regular maintenance to function properly. One common issue is a refrigerant leak, which can cause serious problems with your AC unit if left unaddressed. Here are five warning signs it’s time to call for a professional ac refrigerant leak repair in St. Michael:
Reduced Cooling Performance
The most obvious sign of a refrigerant leak is reduced cooling performance from your AC unit. If your indoor space is not reaching the desired temperature or it takes longer for your AC to cool down the house, it could be a sign of low refrigerant levels. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air inside, so a low level can significantly impact the cooling process.
Hissing or Bubbling Sounds
If you hear hissing or bubbling sounds from your AC unit, it could indicate a refrigerant leak. When the refrigerant escapes the system, it can create a hissing sound as it travels through the lines. Bubbling sounds may also be heard if there is a large leak in the system and the refrigerant is rapidly escaping.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils are responsible for removing heat from the air inside, but if there is a refrigerant leak, they may be unable to do their job effectively. This can cause the coils to freeze, preventing them from absorbing heat and reducing cooling performance. If you notice ice buildup on your AC unit or the evaporator coils, it could indicate a refrigerant leak.
High Electric Bill
A refrigerant leak forces your AC unit to work harder to cool your indoor space, which can result in higher electricity bills. If you notice a significant increase in your electric bill during the summer months, it could be due to a refrigerant leak. This is because your AC unit must run longer to maintain the desired temperature.
Strange Smells or Odors
If your AC unit has a refrigerant leak, it may produce a chemical smell or odor. This is due to the refrigerant itself, which has a distinct and pungent smell. If you notice any strange smells coming from your AC unit, it’s important to have it checked by a professional as soon as possible. In addition, refrigerant leaks can also cause respiratory issues and should be addressed immediately.
While these warning signs can help you identify a refrigerant leak, you can also take preventive measures to avoid them altogether. Regularly scheduled maintenance by a professional HVAC technician is crucial in detecting and repairing potential leaks before they become bigger problems. It’s also important to clean and change your air filters regularly, as a dirty filter can strain your AC unit and cause leaks.
In conclusion, understanding these warning signs of an AC refrigerant leak can save you time, money, and discomfort during the summer months. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address them promptly by contacting a professional HVAC technician. Call the pros today!
