Air conditioning units require consistent annual maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A certified HVAC technician should regularly inspect for signs of aging units and check for coolant leaks.
Understanding Air Conditioning Coolant
Freon was once a household name in the United States. They produce the most widely used types of refrigerants. The three common types of air conditioning coolants used currently or historically are:
- Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or R-410A are today's most widely used coolant in U.S. HVAC units.
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): An organic compound known as an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), was completely phased out of the United States in 1996.
- Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) or R-22: Once the alternative choice to CFCs, which is slated to be completely phased out of the U.S. by 2030.
How AC Units Cool Your Home
The cooling agent, housed in a completely closed system, evaporates as it passes through a compressor. It is superheated into vapor in the condenser. It evaporates to produce cool air, making your home a sanctuary of refreshing comfort during sweltering summer temperatures. However, it's essential to understand that air conditioning coolant depletes over time due to usage, leaks, or other issues, so regular maintenance is crucial.
Safety Using AC Coolants Begin with the Clear Air Act
Safety is paramount when handling refrigerants like HFCs or R-140A. That's why the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administers an EPA-approved examination under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. That way, you can rest assured that your AC unit is safe and in capable hands when you hire a certified HVAC technician. That will give you peace of mind over the performance of your home's AC unit.
How Often Should Your Home AC Unit be Recharged?
Homeowners often ask how often an AC unit should be recharged with air conditioning coolant. Your AC system should not need a coolant recharge unless it leaks.
If your unit loses coolant, it's a severe problem. Regularly scheduled maintenance, typically once a year before the summer season kicks off, will help identify operating problems and leak signs early. By being proactive and scheduling regular maintenance, you can ensure your unit runs efficiently and take responsibility for your home's comfort.
Warning Signs of Low AC Coolant
How can you tell if your AC unit is running low on coolant? Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Reduced Cooling Efficiency: If your AC unit blows warm air or takes too long to cool your home, it could be due to low coolant levels.
- Ice on the AC Lines: Visible ice on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil indicates low coolant.
- Hissing or Bubbling Sounds: These sounds can signify a leak in your refrigerant lines.
- Higher Energy Bills: A struggling AC unit consumes more electricity to keep up with the demands to regulate lower temperatures in a home, leading to higher utility bills.
Hire Harris Heating and Air in Pittsburg, Kansas
Harris Heating and Air, your trusted AC service provider in Pittsburg, Kansas, and the surrounding areas is home to a team of highly trained and certified HVAC technicians. Their expertise ensures comprehensive AC maintenance, including air conditioning coolant checks and recharges. That gives you the confidence that your AC unit is in capable hands.
At Harris Heating and Air, their commitment to excellent service and family values make them the ideal choice for homeowners. By being aware of the signs of low coolant and scheduling regular maintenance with their certified HVAC technicians, you can rest assured that your home is cool and comfortable all summer without worrying about costly repairs.
To schedule your annual maintenance or AC repairs, call Harris Heating and Air at:
- (620) 235-9117 if you live in and around Pittsburg, Kansas
- (417) 310-0132 if you're a homeowner living in and around Webb City, Missouri.