What Is Refrigerant? What Does It Do?
Air conditioning systems aren’t magic; they require refrigerant to get the job done. This liquid constantly undergoes a cycle of liquidation and evaporation to regulate an AC unit’s operations. What’s great about refrigerant is that it remains in the system, even with prolonged use. One should never have to refill their AC with refrigerant or measure how much there is.
To ensure their system continues running smoothly, one should know the basic details about refrigerants and how they work. Here are some answers to some commonly asked questions:
What Refrigerant Does an AC System Use?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all refrigerant for AC systems. Each unit has different needs and must cool certain square footage. Yet, in general, one can find the refrigerant their system uses on the unit’s label. The refrigerant is likely in the user manual if there isn't a sticker.
A homeowner should consult a professional if an AC system needs refrigerant because of a leak. By handling a leak themselves, they risk:
- Mixing refrigerants. Refrigerants cannot be mixed. Doing so could damage the AC system and risk homeowners’ health.
- Overlooking the problem. A healthy AC system doesn’t leak refrigerant. The homeowner doesn’t address the problem that initially led to the leak by just refilling the system.
Here’s an important note. Many AC systems built before 2010 have a refrigerant called R-22. Also known as freon, this substance is illegal because it harms the environment. If one’s system has R-22, a professional can advise homeowners on their options.
What Leads to Refrigerant Leaks?
Most AC systems can last decades and never have a refrigerant leak. Other systems aren’t so lucky. Some things that can lead to refrigerant leaks include:
- Wear and tear. As some parts of the AC system age, they’re more likely to suffer punctures that can lead to leaks. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that most AC systems reach the 10-year mark. However, once an appliance reaches that point, certain problems become inevitable.
- Damage. Damage from infestations and water damage can seriously damage an AC system, leading to refrigerant leaks and other issues.
- Sudden temperature changes. If the temperatures suddenly rise and fall, the AC system’s pipes can contract and constrict, leading to leaks.
- Poor installation. An unskilled HVAC technician may bang up the AC unit while attempting to install it. This can lead to avoidable issues, from refrigerant leaks to uneven cooling.
- Chemical reactions. Some refrigerants and other chemicals can cause rust, corrosion, and other damage that can eat away at a system’s pipes.
When Should a Homeowner Call a Professional About a Refrigerant Problem?
AC problems do not get better on their own. They need attention from a professional. Some signs that warrant a call from an HVAC expert include:
- A frozen AC coil
- Refrigerant leaks
- Higher-than-usual energy bills
- Unexplained water damage
Ideally, a homeowner should consult with an HVAC specialist once a year. An expert can run a diagnostic test and check for any problems. Then, they can offer the necessary repairs, whether patching a refrigerant leak or fixing a refrigerant leak detector.
About Chad’s AC Direct
Finding trustworthy HVAC help shouldn’t be difficult. That’s where Chad’s AC Direct comes in. This family-owned company prides itself on various HVAC services, offering discounted rates and same-day service. Homeowners in Montgomery, Alabama, can schedule an appointment today.
