The Telltale Signs Your AC Is Low on Refrigerant

In America, our “new normal” temperature is a degree warmer than it was just two decades ago. As our average temperatures climb, having a working air conditioning system is more important than ever. If your AC unit isn’t working right, it may be low on refrigerant. How can you tell? Here are key signs of low refrigerant levels.

The AC Is Blowing Warm Air

One of the biggest and most obvious signs there’s something wrong with your AC system is if you notice it blowing warm air. One possible reason for vents blowing out warm air is that you’re low on refrigerant. This usually means your refrigerant levels are so low that the system can’t create cold air.

Ice on the Air Conditioner

Although it may sound counterintuitive, another sign of low refrigerant in an AC is ice forming.

The first place you’ll notice ice forming is the evaporator coil inside the system. Once this ices over, the AC doesn’t get enough airflow, and even more ice forms. The ice can form along the air conditioner’s refrigerant lines and lead to the outside of the unit.

Low refrigerant levels are the most common reason for an iced-over air conditioner. See which steps you need to take when you spot ice on your AC unit.

The AC Keeps Running

Is your air conditioner running more often than usual? This is another key sign the AC is low on refrigerant.

One very common reason for low refrigerant levels is a leak in the system. Fixing the problem is more complicated than adding more refrigerant.

The refrigerant charge needs to match the manufacturer’s levels. Refrigerant is also harmful to the environment, so you should act on a leak as soon as you suspect one.

This is one job you need to leave to a professional heating and air conditioning company.

The AC Won’t Reach the Set Temperature

You program your AC to a certain temperature, but it never gets cool enough. Not only is this frustrating, but it can indicate a bigger problem, like a refrigerant leak. Have a technician out to check your air conditioner and look for any indicators of a leak.

Puddles of Water

Any ice that builds up on the refrigerant lines can melt, creating puddles of water. If you check the furnace and notice water, this is one warning flag you shouldn’t ignore. You shouldn’t see puddles near the furnace for any reason.

Bubbling or Hissing Noises

Strange noises like hissing or bubbling can indicate low refrigerant. A hissing noise is usually a sign that the refrigerant is leaking out as a gas. If you hear a bubbling noise, this is the refrigerant escaping through the leak as a liquid.

Either way, these noises should be your first sign you need to call a technician to look at your system and repair the leak.

Is Your AC Low on Refrigerant?

These are some of the most common signs that an AC is low on refrigerant. The problem can only be fixed by a professional, and you should contact an air conditioning repair company as soon as you suspect a leak.

If you need AC repair services in the southwest Missouri region, send us a message or give us a call today.