All air conditioning systems, from traditional split central ACs to air source heat pumps and everything in between, use refrigerant in order to facilitate the heat transfer process. Heat is removed from the air in a home, and that cooled air is then redistributed throughout the house and the heat vented outdoors. Because of this, as you can imagine, an insufficient level of refrigerant can be quite problematic. You should also know that your system does not consume refrigerant, so a low refrigerant charge is very likely the result of a leak somewhere in your system. You will likely not be able to find the leak on your own, nor should you attempt to repair it – only certified professionals are allowed to charge systems. If you suspect that you have a refrigerant leak in North Seattle, contact G&S Heating, Cooling & Electrical, Inc., immediately.
- Ducts Blow Warm Air: If you air ducts are blowing warm air, even though your air conditioner is running, it is possible that the problem stems from an insufficient refrigerant charge. Your system is not going to be able to transfer heat effectively out of your home, so the air coming from the ductwork will not be as cool as it would be if proper refrigerant levels we present. Having leaks sealed and recharging your refrigerant is the only way to get your system back on track in such events.
- Frost or Ice Buildup: Considering that you use your air conditioner in order to cool your home down, the presence of frost or ice on your coils or refrigerant lines may not sound like a problem. It is indeed, though, and suggests that refrigerant levels are low. The buildup of ice can further inhibit heat transfer, leading to an even less impressive cooling performance.
- Hissing or Bubbling Sounds: Leaking refrigerant may be audible in your system under the right conditions. While all air conditioners will make some amount of noise while in use, hissing sounds are not uncommon when refrigerant is leaking. Whatever concerns you may have regarding the condition of your AC, know that our team can handle the repairs you need.
