Symptoms of Low Refrigerant in AC Unit or Heat Pump

What’s in This Guide: 

• Signs Your AC or Heat Pump is Low on Refrigerant
• What Happens When AC or Heat Pump is Low on Refrigerant
• Causes of Refrigerant Leaks
• How to Prevent Your AC or Heat Pump From Getting Low on Refrigerant
• Frequently Asked Questions

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems that absorbs heat from the air to cool your home. When refrigerant levels drop, your system has to work harder to cool your home, resulting in wear and tear, increased energy usage, and poor airflow. Knowing the signs your AC is low on refrigerant can help you solve the issue before it progresses. Read on to learn the signs, causes, and remedies of low refrigerant in an AC unit or heat pump. 

Signs Your AC or Heat Pump is Low on Refrigerant

Knowing the warning signs that your AC is low on refrigerant helps you stay ahead of costly repairs and potential health hazards. The top ways to tell your AC is low on refrigerant include:

 

• Strange noises: Hissing, bubbling, or gurgling sounds coming from your unit are some of the most common signs of a refrigerant leak. If you hear these noises, contact our team immediately.
• Poor airflow: If your system is no longer cooling or heating your home like it used to, it could be due to low refrigerant.
• Increased humidity: Your AC unit or heat pump controls the humidity in your home. It can’t operate efficiently when it’s low on refrigerant, and you will likely see the humidity levels rise.
• Rising energy bills: When your unit is low on refrigerant, it has to work harder to operate. As energy usage increases, your utility bills will likely rise.
• Visible ice or frost: If you see ice or frost covering the outside of your unit, this is a clear sign that the refrigerant is escaping.

What Happens When AC or Heat Pump is Low on Refrigerant

Refrigerant is essential to a properly working HVAC system. When your unit has low levels, it has to work much harder to operate. As it struggles to cool or heat your home, its components become increasingly worn, and its lifespan will shorten significantly. This wear and tear can result in a constant need for repairs or early breakdown.

If the refrigerant leaks out of your system, it can also seriously impact your household’s health. Refrigerant is a toxic substance that can cause serious health issues. Turn off your system, evacuate your home, and contact a medical professional if you notice any of the following signs of refrigerant poisoning:

• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Burning sensations in your eyes
• Confusion or dizziness
• Skin irritation

Causes of Refrigerant Leaks

Several things can cause a refrigerant leak, from broken components to factory flaws. The top causes include the following:

• Wear and tear: As your system ages, the seals and connections can wear, allowing refrigerant to leak out.
• Improper installation: If your system’s installation isn’t correct, it can result in significant damage, such as refrigerant leaks. It’s important to always hire a reputable technician to complete the installation, as they have the training and experience to do so correctly.
• Manufacturer defects: Factory defects can cause refrigerant leaks. Improper manufacturing can result in malfunctions, broken parts, and leaks.
• Corrosion: Over time, the metal components of your HVAC unit are prone to corrosion. When they corrode, the system can develop cracks and leaks.
• Vibration: AC units and heat pumps often vibrate when turned on. This vibration can cause additional wear and tear on the system, resulting in leaks.
• Lack of maintenance: Preventative maintenance keeps your system working correctly and helps to identify minor damages or leaks. Without proper maintenance, these things will go unnoticed and become significant issues.

How to Prevent Your AC or Heat Pump From Getting Low on Refrigerant

The best way to prevent your AC or heat pump from running low on refrigerant is preventative maintenance. Annual maintenance ensures your system works correctly and identifies minor repairs before they become major issues. During the service, a technician will thoroughly inspect, clean, and tune up your system to ensure it’s in top condition. They will also check the refrigerant levels, top it up if needed, and check for leaks.

While it’s often best to leave it to the professionals, you can also check refrigerant levels yourself by taking the following steps:

1. Turn off the system and remove the cover.
2. Find the refrigerant level gauge (often on the side of the unit).
3. Connect the red high-pressure gauge to the high-pressure service valve. 
4. Connect the blue low-pressure gauge to the low-pressure service valve.
5. Check the refrigerant levels. If the low-pressure readings are below the indicated range, there is likely insufficient refrigerant in the system.

If the readings indicate low levels, contact an experienced technician. They can determine the cause of the dropping levels and top it up safely and correctly. 

Along with checking the refrigerant levels, you can also take the following steps to prevent your system from wear and tear and identify leaks before they progress:

• Cleaning the coils
• Performing visual inspections
• Keeping the system clear of debris
• Hiring a reputable company to install the system
• Cover the system when it’s not in use

Call Amarillo Air for AC Services in Texas

If your HVAC system shows signs of low refrigerant, contact our team at Amarillo Air. We’re available 24/7 for emergency repairs, so you can trust that we’ll be there no matter the day or time. Our technicians arrive with fully stocked trucks to ensure they can finish the job in one visit. They’ll treat your home with care and respect and ensure the safety of your household.

Book online or call us at (806) 372-2665 to schedule your appointment today. We provide service to residents in Amarillo, TX, and surrounding areas. Don’t forget to ask about our Home Comfort Club, where members receive bi-annual maintenance appointments, exclusive discounts, priority scheduling, and more VIP benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I add refrigerant to my AC?

Refrigerant only requires a top-up every two to five years. An experienced professional should always handle tops-ups due to the dangers it presents. If your refrigerant levels suddenly drop, there is likely a leak that needs professional repair. If you suspect your refrigerant levels are low, contact our team to schedule a repair or maintenance appointment.

Can AC refrigerant levels decrease without a leak?

Refrigerant levels should generally stay the same unless there is a leak. Over time, they may decrease slightly, with a top-up required only once every several years. If your system’s refrigerant levels drop, contact our team to have it assessed as soon as possible to determine the cause. 

How long can my AC run with low refrigerant?

Once you detect low refrigerant levels, you should immediately stop using your AC unit. Continuing to run the system can cause serious damage and leak more refrigerant into your space. Contact one of our technicians right away to schedule a repair. If an unexpected service has caught you off guard, ask about our flexible financing plans designed to fit your budget.