How to Spot a Freon Leak

Keeping your home comfortable and your utility bills low is a priority for most homeowners. Without proper installation and regular maintenance of your HVAC equipment, a freon leak can cause issues in keeping your home cool and comfortable. 

We outline a few tell-tale signs of a freon leak from your air conditioner and share our tips on managing this problem below. 

What Is a Freon Leak? 

Freon is a refrigerant commonly used in air conditioners and heat pumps. When a Freon leak occurs, your air conditioner won’t work to cool your home properly. 

When discussing HVAC systems, people sometimes refer to Freon as “refrigerant” or “Puron.” However, there are some differences between these terms to keep in mind. 

• Refrigerant is the overarching term used to describe the fluid used in appliances and air conditioners to absorb heat. Freon is the name of a single brand of refrigerant. 
• Puron is another refrigerant. However, Freon is more environmentally friendly than Puron.  

Four Signs of a Freon Leak

1. Longer cooling times: You might notice your AC is not working as efficiently as usual. Longer cooling times and higher levels of humidity can all indicate a leak.

2. Strange smells: While a Freon leak may not have an apparent strong smell, some scents could still be a sign of a leak. Many people report smelling a semi-sweet or chloroform smell. If you suspect you smell a Freon leak, leave the building immediately and call in an HVAC specialist, as inhaling refrigerants can harm your health. 

3. Unusual sounds: Another tell-tale sign of a Freon leak is a low hissing sound. This sound may mean a crack or fracture somewhere in your air conditioning system. 

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4. Increased utility bills: If you’ve noticed an abnormal spike in your utility bills, it may be time to investigate your air conditioner’s effectiveness. Calling in an HVAC specialist is an excellent step in the right direction. 

How Do Freon Leaks Occur? 

A leak can occur due to regular wear and tear and erosion over time. Typically, the rubber seal surrounding your service valve, the refrigerant line fitting, breaks down over time.  

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Improper air conditioning unit installation, a factory defect, or even damage from incorrect maintenance can cause leaks.  

What Should I Do if I Have a Freon Leak? 

If you’re experiencing a freon leak in your air conditioning unit, it’s time to contact an HVAC professional. The sooner the leak is addressed, the sooner you can enjoy cool air throughout your home. 

The team at Air Authority specializes in HVAC repair, service, and installation. Contact us for a consultation, a free second opinion, and to discover what we can do for you.