AC Units: How to Check for Refrigerant Leaks and Other Problems

With the summer coming up, it's always important to make sure you are getting the best performance from your air conditioner. Having your air conditioner system repaired can help save on energy costs, reduce repair costs, and keep your family comfortable. So make sure you check out this guide that details how to check if there are refrigerant leaks in your air conditioning system and other problems that need to be repaired.

Signs of Refrigerant Leaks

Air conditioning units can be very finicky if they are not properly maintained. The most common problem that you may encounter is a refrigerant leak, which can cause your AC unit to overheat and eventually break down.

A refrigerant leak can occur in several different spots:

• Valve O-ring or gasket - If this part fails, it will leak refrigerant out of your unit and into the atmosphere. This is usually a minor problem but should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
• Drain valve - This is the main opening where all of the condensation from inside your air conditioner drains out into a drip pan underneath the unit. If this valve becomes damaged, it may not close properly, which will allow moisture to enter back into your system.
• Compressor - The compressor is responsible for pumping refrigerant through your air conditioner so that it can cool down your home or office space. If there is an issue with your compressor's seal or bearings, then it could begin leaking refrigerant into the atmosphere.

These are common refrigerant leak signs that you might need to look for when you are having a problem with your AC this summer. 

Is the AC Unit Dirty?

The first thing you should do is check for dirt and debris on your AC unit's coils. Dirty coils can make it difficult for your AC unit to pull air through them. This can make your AC system work harder to cool down your home. You can use a shop vacuum or leaf blower to blow away any leaves, dust, or other debris from the coils.

Does the Fan Work?

If the air conditioner is running but not blowing cool air, the problem could be a dirty filter or low refrigerant levels. But if you've already checked those two things, then it's time to check other parts of your system.

Your condenser fan also needs to be working properly. The condenser fan pulls in hot outside air through vents in front of your unit and pushes it through coils at the back of your unit, where it releases heat into the atmosphere. If this fan isn't working properly, then there will be no airflow through your system.

Do You Have a Broken Thermostat?

A broken thermostat that isn't set properly is another one of the most common problems with air conditioning systems. If you want your AC to cool down, set the thermostat to the lowest temperature setting possible. If you want your AC to run faster, set it higher.

If your AC isn't working at all, check for loose connections in the electrical wiring. There should be no loose connections or damaged wires anywhere in your electrical system. If there are any damaged parts inside of your unit, contact an HVAC technician immediately because they could pose serious safety risks if left unattended for too long!

Are You Hearing Any Strange Noises?

If your AC is making strange noises, it could be a sign that something is wrong. The most common noises include humming, buzzing, and knocking. These sounds can come from either the compressor or the fan motor. If you hear these sounds, it's best to call in an HVAC professional as soon as possible. They can check out your system and find out exactly what's causing your system to make these noises.

Don't let the heat get to you this summer. It's time to check for refrigerant leaks and other problems that may need repairing in your air conditioning system. Contact an air conditioner repair service to help check for refrigerant leaks and other problems that could cause your system to malfunction.