As you try to maintain your air conditioning unit to extend its durability, you need to keep an eye on the refrigerant level. Although the refrigerant runs in a closed system, sometimes, there may be leaks that will lower the coolant level. The main cause of coolant leaks is wear and tear, which occurs when using your AC unit. But how can you tell if your coolant is running low, and what can you do about it?
Signs the Coolant Is Low
Here are some signs that indicate the refrigerant levels in your air conditioning system are running low:
The Unit Is Blowing Hot Air
The cooling power of your AC unit on a hot day remains unmatched. But when you notice your unit blowing hot or warm air, the coolant could be low. The air conditioning unit depends on the coolant to cool the air flowing in. So, when the coolant is running low, the conditioner cannot cool the air, and thus, blows out hot air.
Unusual Sound From the AC System
Are you hearing some bubbling sounds from your air conditioner? It could indicate low coolant levels. The refrigerant lines have high pressure, so if the coolant leaks, it will produce a strange sound.
Ice on the Evaporator Coil
When the coolant runs low, there will be low pressure in the refrigerant lines. The low pressure will lead to low temperatures. Over time, the temperatures will fall low enough to freeze water running through the evaporator coil.
Challenges Due to Low Refrigerant
The main problem with low coolant levels in your unit will be the inefficiency of the unit. With low refrigerant levels, the system will be unable to transfer heat. Therefore, it becomes inefficient, with poor cooling, which could result in discomfort.
Low coolant levels can also damage the unit. Despite the refrigerant running low, the unit will continue trying to cool the air. Over time of extensively straining, the conditioner is likely to wear and tear, damaging other system components.
A leak in the unit that lowers the refrigerant levels might also pose a health concern. The coolant contains toxic chemicals which can be harmful to your loved ones and the environment as well.
What to Do
For an air conditioning system to work optimally, it should have enough coolant. If your unit shows any of the signs above, you need to seek air conditioning services. AC technicians can inspect the unit, diagnose the problem, and come up with a trusted solution. The experts can repair the leak and charge your system to keep it running efficiently and extend its durability.
Contact a local HVAC service to learn more about air conditioning maintenance.
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