Refrigerant Issues and Leaks

Refrigerant Issues and Leaks

Refrigerant is a chemical that circulates within the Air Conditioner coils to absorb the heat from the intake air before the resulting cooled air is blown into the ductwork for distribution to vents throughout the home. For decades, the most common form of coolant was Freon (R-22), but a more energy-efficient coolant called Puron (R-410A) is now widely used. 

AC systems are designed to keep this coolant contained, but it can leak and/or evaporate for one or more of a variety of reasons:

  1. Corrosion or cracks in coils and tubing

    1. Hairline cracks can slowly discharge coolant over a period of time

    2. Larger breaks can discharge coolant in an instant

  2. Vermin nesting

  3. Projectile damage to distribution components

    1. Storm damage (falling branches)

    2. Land shifts from tremors or earthquakes

    3. Impact from objects (balls, frisbees, ladders)

    4. Human contact (it’s not uncommon for people to climb on AC equipment) 

Belle Air can pinpoint the most likely cause of your coolant leak and discuss repair and equipment replacement options with you.  

Talk to a Belle Air Systems Expert about Refrigerant Issues and Leaks