Tips For Addressing Coolant Leaks With AC Units
Posted on: 27 August 2020
A very important aspect of residential AC units working correctly is the coolant. It's what helps your AC unit produce cool air that is then put throughout your entire home. If you think this coolant is leaking somewhere, approach this issue with caution and these tips.
Be Aware of Coolant Leaking Signs
To determine if you truly have a coolant leak or not, you should be aware of common coolant leaking signs. There are a couple to actively monitor, such as warm air coming through the vents. This shouldn't be happening. The air should be cold. If you're having to put more coolant in your system on a frequent basis, it is very likely that a leak has developed and it needs to be addressed as soon as you can get around to it. As long as your system is sealed properly, you should never need to top up your coolant. Low coolant levels indicate that there is a leak somewhere.
Identify the Recommended Coolant Type
If you do suspect a coolant leak is affecting the way your AC unit runs, then your next priority is figuring out what coolant type is needed to fill your system back up once the leak is taken care of.
Residential AC units require different types of coolant, but it should say exactly what your unit needs according to the manufacturer. It could be R-22 or R410A, depending on the age and model of your unit.
Once you know the coolant type, you can let the company know that's coming out to fix the leak.
Hire a Professional for an Effective Patch
Any time you're left dealing with a coolant leak, it's best to leave it alone and instead hire a professional AC repair contractor. They can competently find the leak's source in the coolant lines much faster and safer than you can.
What they'll do is send a particular dye through that shows up once a UV light is directed on it. The method lets the technician see exactly where coolant is coming out, and that's the place where they'll apply the patch.
The patch will be completely weatherproof and designed to work just as good as new coolant lines do.
No homeowner wants to face coolant leaks with their AC system, but they'll eventually happen at some point. You'll be ready when they do by knowing what protocol to follow, such as confirming the leak and finding a skilled repair company to patch up the structural issues that are present.
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