Keys To Dealing With AC Refrigerant Leaks

Posted on: 14 April 2021

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If you have refrigerant leaking out of the lines connected to your AC system, then you probably won't be able to get cool air. You may not get any at all, as a matter of fact. When in this predicament, it helps to be calculated in your response by doing a couple of things.

Identify the Severity

Refrigerant leaks take many forms. Some aren't that big a deal, and you may not even be able to notice them. Then, sometimes these leaks can be a massive problem, which you'll notice if your AC system isn't able to provide cool air.

Coming up with a solution that truly works is a lot easier to do when you know just how severe the AC refrigerant leak is. You'll need to study your coolant lines until you're able to find out where the refrigerant is getting out. Then you'll have a better time responding.

Use an Electronic Leak Detector

If you plan on finding out where your refrigerant is getting out from the lines, then you'll need to either purchase or rent an electronic leak detector. It's a handy device that can pick up traces of refrigerant, thus helping you find out where the leak has occurred.

You'll just need to make sure this electronic leak detector is calibrated and then read through its manual, to learn how to use this device in a short period of time. Only once the leak problem is detected by this device can you put together some solutions.

Determine if Lines are Repairable or Have to be Replaced

There are two possible scenarios when there is a leak in your refrigerant lines. Either a repair is possible, or the lines have to be replaced either somewhat or completely. Knowing which option to choose is critical because there are significant cost differences between the two options.

So that you don't mess up deciding one way or another, consider hiring a professional AC repair contractor to provide a professional inspection. They can then let you know what is possible, based on how bad the damage really is around the lines.

AC refrigerant is vital for every single residential AC unit, and unfortunately, it can escape refrigerant lines when there is damage. If you take this repair process seriously as a homeowner and implement sound, safe practices, then you shouldn't have trouble getting your AC unit restored to maximum efficiency.