How Do I Know If My AC Needs Freon?

It’s only May, but Florida is already getting an early taste of summer as the temperatures across the sunshine state are skyrocketing. Central Florida is already getting swamped by extreme heat.

As the temperatures soar, you would want your air conditioner to work flawlessly. Having a poorly running air conditioning system is not only frustrating but also uncomfortable.

When your air conditioner isn’t cooling as it should, one of the first things you need to check is the Freon level. But what exactly is it? Why does your AC need Freon? 

Let’s break it down for you.

What is Freon, and Why Does Your AC Need It?

Freon is simply the name for the refrigerant used in air conditioning systems. Your AC needs Freon to absorb the heat from the indoor air and release it outside. This cycle keeps your home cool and comfortable while the outdoor temperatures run high. 

If your AC does not have enough Freon, it cannot cool your home effectively. For one, this leads to discomfort as weak airflow makes you feel stuffy and sweaty. Secondly, your AC will work overtime to maintain the desired indoor temperature. That means your energy bills will shoot up.

So, before the summer begins, check the level of Freon in your air conditioner. It should be a part of your routine HVAC maintenance. 

Common Causes of Freon Leaks

Although your AC needs freon refrigerant, you don’t have to refill it. That’s a common myth. The condenser coils, which hold freon, are enclosed. So, under normal conditions, Freon has no place to escape. It will continue to work as long as your HVAC system remains well-maintained. The only reason your AC needs a Freon refill is if there is a refrigerant leak in the HVAC system. 

The most common reasons for freon leaks include: 

1. Age and Wear of AC Components

Like anything else, AC parts wear out over time. This wear and tear – thanks to the extreme Florida heat and humidity – can lead to leaks in the Freon system. If your AC is old and blowing warm air, it could indicate a Freon leak.

2. Poor Installation or Maintenance

Like your car, your AC also needs some TLC. Lack of regular maintenance can lead to Freon leaks. Similarly, if your air conditioner wasn’t installed correctly, you might face Freon leaks sooner than expected. 

From time to time, we get a call from a property owner who tried to save a few bucks and install the AC without a professional. This creates many issues – most commonly leaks and corrosion over time. In some cases, we end up having to replace the entire system. 

3. Physical Damage

Although the coils holding Freon are durable, they are not immune to damage. Accidents or weather impacts, like storms and strong winds, can damage the parts of your AC that contain Freon. This could result in leaks.

Florida’s extreme heat forces AC systems to work harder, which means the risk of Freon leaks goes way up in the summer. 

4. Corrosion

Sometimes, the internal parts of your air conditioner can corrode or react chemically. This weakens the coils holding Freon, which leads to leaks. Corrosion can be accelerated by factors such as exposure to salt air in coastal areas or pollutants in the environment, which exacerbate the degradation of metal components. 

Over time, these chemical reactions create tiny holes or cracks in the coils, allowing Freon to escape and reducing the efficiency of the cooling system.

Signs Your AC Might Need Freon

If your AC needs Freon, it will show the following signs: 

1. Weak Airflow

There might be a noticeable drop in the airflow from your AC vents. If the airflow isn’t as strong as usual, it could indicate a Freon leak.

2. Inconsistent or Lack of Cooling

Another sign is that your air conditioner is always running but struggles to meet the thermostat settings or keeps blowing room-temperature air. It could be due to a Freon shortage, which prevents your Air conditioning unit from cooling efficiently.

3. Ice Buildup on the Evaporator Coils

Ice or frost on your AC coils often points to low Freon levels. The reduced Freon levels cause the coils to freeze. 

4. Hissing or Bubbling Noises

Your HVAC unit can make noises that indicate potential problems. Hissing and bubbling noises are typically a sign of a Freon leak. 

5. Sudden Spike in Energy Bills

Low Freon levels result in inefficient cooling. That means your HVAC unit has to work harder to cool your home. This could increase your electricity costs. If your energy bills are going up but you are not using your AC more than usual, it could point to low Freon levels.

Call a licensed HVAC service provider immediately if you notice one or more of these signs. Freon leak is a major problem. Don’t try to fix it by yourself. Experts know how to handle and fix Freon leaks safely and efficiently. 

How to Confirm if Your AC Needs Freon

If you suspect your air conditioner isn’t cooling as efficiently as it should, you can run a few DIY checks or call a professional HVAC technician. 

DIY Checks

If you are a keen DIY enthusiast, check the airflow and temperature coming from your vents. As mentioned, a major sign is that your AC unit keeps blowing room-temperature air. Next, look for any ice buildup or frost on the evaporator coils. These signs could suggest a Freon leak.

Call an HVAC Technician

This is your best bet. Call a certified technician if you are unsure why your air conditioner is not working as efficiently as it should. They have the knowledge and tools to diagnose Freon levels in your AC. They can quickly fix a leak or replace the damaged part if needed. 

Know the Risks of Operating an AC with Low Freon Levels

The National Institute of Health has released studies about the health risks of freon inhalation – namely inducing cardiotoxicity in the form of cardiac arrhythmias. 

Remember that your air conditioner will keep running despite low levels of Freon. However, it comes with two major risks – higher wear and tear and increased electricity costs. 

Running your AC with insufficient Freon reduces its cooling efficiency. That means your HVAC unit has to work harder and use more energy to cool your home. It not only drives up your energy costs but also causes premature wear and tear. 

Additionally, according to WebMD, Freon exposure has its health risks. Including:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Throat irritation
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion
• Redness and itching
• Burning sensation
• Watery eyes

If you’re worried something is off with your AC – and you’re experiencing any of these symptoms – get your system checked immediately. 

The Wrap Up 

Your AC needs Freon for efficient cooling. Freon absorbs the heat from indoor air and releases it outside, keeping your home cool. If you suspect your AC is low on Freon, don’t wait. Check it yourself or call a professional for help. Fix this issue immediately to avoid frequent wear and tear of your AC components, increased electricity costs, and potential coolant poisoning.

So, do you think your AC has a Freon leak? Don’t worry we are here to help. Contact us online or call (727) 281-8718 to schedule a visit.