Your central air conditioner is essential for keeping your home cool and comfortable during hot Arizona summers.
But what happens when your AC stops delivering that crisp, cool air? One potential culprit could be low refrigerant levels, commonly referred to as Freon.
But how do you know if your AC needs more Freon? Let’s check out some signs and what to do about them.
Can Your AC Run Out of Freon?
Freon (or refrigerant) isn’t something your air conditioner “uses up” like gasoline in a car. Instead, it circulates in a closed-loop system, absorbing and releasing heat to cool your home.
The only way your AC loses Freon is if there’s a leak somewhere in the system. These leaks can be caused by factors like:
- Corrosion – Over time, formic acid can eat away at copper tubing, creating tiny leaks.
- Wear and Tear – Rubber seals and joints can degrade, especially in older units.
- Physical Damage – Small punctures or cracks can develop from external impacts or poor maintenance.
Signs Your Central Air Needs Freon
If your AC is low on refrigerant, you’ll likely notice one or more of these warning signs:
1. Your Home Feels Warmer Than Usual
One of the first signs of low Freon is that your AC runs, but your home doesn’t cool down properly. If your air feels warm or less powerful, your refrigerant levels might be too low to absorb heat effectively.
2. Ice Buildup on the Refrigerant Line
If you notice ice forming on the refrigerant line or evaporator coil, it’s a sign of trouble. Low Freon causes the coil to become too cold, freezing the moisture in the air and leading to ice buildup. If ignored, this can severely damage your AC unit.
3. Unusually High Energy Bills
Has your electric bill spiked unexpectedly? If your AC is struggling to cool your home due to low refrigerant, it will run longer and work harder, leading to increased energy consumption.
4. Hissing or Bubbling Noises
Freon leaks can sometimes be heard. If you notice a hissing or bubbling noise coming from your AC, it could mean there’s a refrigerant leak that needs immediate attention.
What Should You Do?
If you suspect your AC is low on Freon, don’t wait to call a professional HVAC technician. Simply adding more refrigerant won’t fix the problem if there’s a leak. An expert can locate and repair the leak before refilling the system to ensure your AC works efficiently.
Keep Your AC Running Strong
Regular maintenance can help catch refrigerant leaks early and keep your AC performing at its best. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling is here to help. Contact us today for expert AC service and stay cool all summer long!
