Air Now - A Quick Guide to Refrigerant

HVAC experts in Sarasota, FL give a quick guide to refrigerants and how to solve common refrigerant problems.

What Are AC Refrigerants?

An air conditioning system cannot function without AC refrigerants. However, using any refrigerant is also not recommended. An air conditioning unit refrigerant is a solution that changes from a liquid to a gas. This solution is located in the coils of an AC and is what ‘cools’ the system. However, when problems with an AC system’s refrigerant arise, it can cause the formation of ice on the outside of the coils.

How To Tell Which Refrigerant To Use?

Homeowners should leave significant air conditioning problems to the professionals. While there are some common and easy ways to find the exact refrigerant needed, it is best to use a professional HVAC service. However, homeowners can find the precise refrigerant needed for their AC on the appliance description sticker. This sticker is ‌on the unit or is in the user manual. Sometimes the manual and sticker are misplaced. In these cases, calling a professional HVAC technician is useful.

There is a high chance that -R22 refrigerant is needed if the system was built before 2012. Actually, -R22 refrigerant is banned in newer air conditioners because of how damaging the freon is to the environment. As tempting as using R22 or other refrigerants in an AC system, always use the one stated on the manual or sticker. Refrigerants are not interchangeable. Using the wrong one can cause homeowners to lose their system, forcing them to replace their HVAC unit.

The Common Causes of Refrigerant Leaks and Quick Solutions

Refrigerant leaks cause AC systems to stop working. But why do they happen? Refrigerant leaks are regular. However, it is best to spot them before more damage is done to the system. HVAC experts can look for the cause by looking at the AC unit with special tools.

HVAC technicians can find the cause with special tools, like flashlights. Usually, refrigerant leaks happen with everyday wear and tear. Usually, in the sixth year of use, an HVAC system will wear down, leading to dents and pinholes in the tubing. The buildup of acid from chemicals and humidity also leads to these small pinholes.

When Should Homeowners Call a Professional HVAC Technician?

Whenever a homeowner is in doubt, they should call their local and professional HVAC technician. HVAC systems are expensive and delicate, so working on them without having experience can lead to further damage.

It is hard to tell when there are refrigerant leaks. While this is true, homeowners can combat the problem by looking at their unit. The number one sign that the refrigerant from the system is leaking is frozen coils and condensation.

However, not all homeowners have the time to check on the systems. If the AC system is not properly cooling, or if there is an error message on the thermostat, this could signal that the coils are frozen.

About Air Now

Air Now is an HVAC company focusing on each homeowner and their unique needs. This is done by providing 24/7 help and no hidden charges. Call Air Now for HVAC service in Sarasota, FL.