How To Tell When Your AC Is Low on Freon

Refrigerant, also known as freon, is an essential element of every air conditioning unit. An AC low on freon can suffer numerous functional setbacks. So, how do you know when freon is low?

Luckily, a competent heating and air company in Landrum helps answer this question. You can save your air conditioning system by identifying the problems that lead to leaks, damage, and more. Read on to see how to avoid low freon in an AC unit.

Understanding Freon in Air Conditioners

Freon is a refrigerant that changes states from liquid to gas within air conditioning applications. Low freon levels indicate more significant problems in your AC system than just the need for a simple recharge.

How Freon Works

Freon helps cool the air coming into your home through the outdoor unit. A refrigerant line ensures that cool air circulates through and out of the ventilation.

Signs Your Freon Is Leaking

Refrigerant leaks can cause significant damage to your system and cost more money in energy bills. Noticing the early signs will also help you avoid uncomfortable room temperatures. The most obvious sign of a refrigerant leak is excessive water pooling in or around the unit. 

As the freon gas becomes liquid, condensation builds in and around your AC system. You should expect low condensation levels to accumulate. However, excessive water is a sign of leaking and internal damage. 

Water can damage other internal components in your HVAC system or cause ice buildup. Frozen parts may block air from escaping. Check for pinholes or loose couplers that may be the source of the leak.

An AC low on freon may emit unusual bubbling or cracking noises. Always turn your system off when inspecting these sounds. This method protects you from potentially loose components that create hazards.

Lastly, suppose you notice that the air conditioner is always on or underperforming. In that case, it may not have sufficient freon. 

These appliances use thermostat metrics to determine when to turn on and off. If an AC low on freon prevents the room from cooling, your unit will not turn off.

Ways To Prevent Freon Leaks

The best way to avoid refrigerant leaks is to monitor and maintain AC units regularly. Most homeowners neglect these appliances for too long. This negligence results in faulty components, damage, and underperformance. 

1. Clear Dirt and Debris

Cleaning your AC unit is a great way to ensure dangerous particles and debris don’t damage refrigerant lines. Microscopic wear and tear eventually degrade internal material. Clean your units with non-abrasive solutions that do not corrode plastics or metal.

Change air filters every three to six months for high air quality and efficiency. If you're not sure how to do this, look at your unit owner's manual or reach out to Smooth Sailing Heating and Cooling. We're always happy to answer your HVAC questions.

2. Do Not Clutter Your Units or Vents

Too much clutter around your outdoor unit or vents stresses your air conditioning system. An HVAC system that overworks itself will likely fail faster and cost more in replacements. 

Avoid keeping furniture over vents or near the outdoor unit, so the air has room to circulate. Don’t keep objects that could cause damage around valves or refrigerant lines . 

3. Trust in Professionals

Air conditioning specialists are excellent at monitoring and maintaining your units. These professionals will identify minor issues that may lead to more significant problems. They will communicate concerns to you so you can resolve them before they worsen.

Work with an HVAC professional to find the source of the freon leak. Repairing this problem will extend your unit’s service life. It may also save you money on the next electricity bill.

Repair Your Refrigerant Line Today

Smooth Sailing Heating and Cooling is Landrum's #1 air conditioning repair provider. We ensure every home and business gets quality temperature control at affordable rates. 

Avoid the hassle of shoddy installation and repair by enlisting our technicians. We do the work right every time.

Do you need help with your heat systems? Learn why your furnace is blowing cold air and more by speaking with us today. Our veteran crew will share their wisdom to ensure you get the most out of your HVAC units.

When you choose our company, we guarantee customer satisfaction. Our superior materials will instill confidence in your installation. We value our customers, which is why residents trust us to deliver the services they need on time.

Is your AC low on freon? Contact Smooth Sailing Heating and Cooling in Boiling Springs, SC, today. Call us at 864-804-6400.