The most commonly used refrigerant in air conditioning systems is Puron, more specifically R-410A. This refrigerant is a non-toxic, non-flammable gas that lacks odor, so when your unit springs a leak, your nose might not alert you to the problem.
Can R-410A Exposure Be Deadly? Yes, it certainly can be. A heart arrythmia increases your risk of cardiac arrest, heart failure, and stroke. Moreover, if you're in an enclosed environment and breathing in R-410A for long enough, it can asphyxiate you since it displaces oxygen in the air.
R22 has now been banned because of its negative impact on the environment. AC units manufactured since 2010 use R410A, and more recently, R32 refrigerants, both are virtually odourless.
Freon and Puron have scents that resemble a sweet chloroform aroma. If it's indeed a coolant leak, you should try to get it repaired promptly to avoid further damage.
1. Refrigerant Leaks. R-410a (Puron) is a non-flammable, non-toxic liquid used as a refrigerant to cool your air conditioner. In 2020, it replaced Freon, which was discontinued to protect the ozone layer.
The most commonly used refrigerant in air conditioning systems is Puron, more specifically R-410A. This refrigerant is a non-toxic, non-flammable gas that lacks odor, so when your unit springs a leak, your nose might not alert you to the problem.
A ultrasonic leak detector (see photo below) locates where the turbulent escaping gas is exiting the tubing. This tool can be used during a nitrogen pressure test, or while refrigerant is in the system (R-410A, R-22, or another refrigerant).
Key Takeaways. Freon leaks can emit a faint, sweet odor similar to acetone or nail polish remover. Reduced cooling efficiency, hissing sounds, and ice buildup on coils are common signs of a refrigerant leak. Prompt professional repair is essential to address leaks and prevent health hazards.
Puron, specifically R-410A, the refrigerant that's most commonly found in air conditioning systems today, is not toxic to inhale. However, we wouldn't be writing a blog post about this if there weren't more to the story! You can't just leave your air conditioner to leak refrigerant because it's not toxic.
Why R-410A Is Being Phased Out. Because R-410A operates at such high pressures, there is an increased risk of an environmentally harmful refrigerant leak during maintenance and repair work. The R-410A phase-out means new HVAC systems will use more sustainable refrigerants.
Excess moisture in ducts or vents
Mould and mildew love moisture, so when there's excess moisture in the ducts and vents in your air conditioning system, it's creating the perfect environment for mould to grow. When air is blown through the vents or ducts, the musty smell will spread through your home.
Under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, EPA prohibits individuals from knowingly venting refrigerants containing ozone-depleting refrigerants (including HCFC-22) as well as their substitutes (such as HFCs, including R-410A), while maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of AC and refrigeration equipment.
Lastly, refrigerant leaks pose a threat to your health. Refrigeration is a toxic substance, and ingesting or inhaling it can cause severe poisoning. If you inhale enough of it, it may lead to permanent neurological damage or worse.
R-410A is not only better for the ozone layer; it also provides a better overall operation. It absorbs and releases the heat better than R-22, making your compressor run cooler so that it does not overheat.
Unlike alkyl halide refrigerants that contain bromine or chlorine, R-410A (which contains only fluorine) does not contribute to ozone depletion and therefore became more widely used as ozone-depleting refrigerants like R-22 were phased out.
It is not normal to smell gas from your HVAC system. A gas smell could indicate a leak, which is dangerous and requires immediate attention. Turn off your system and contact a professional to inspect and resolve the issue.
In a situation where the refrigerant leaks, it can create a chemical scent that people sometimes describe as smelling like chemicals or paint thinner, vinegar or acetone. An additional possible reason for the smell could be an issue with the electrical wiring or components inside the air conditioning system.
Most leaks begin as a “pinhole” leak, or a “champagne” leak. Many air conditioning experts call it a “champagne” leak because the freon begins to bubble at the source of the hole. Normally, this occurs at the location of the evaporator coil, but is not the only place a leak can stem from.
Pressure, frostbite, overexposure to vapors and deliberate inhalation are all potential hazards with most com- monly used refrigerants. In general, R-410A should be han- dled the same as R-22, with the excep- tion of the higher pressure.
Because R-410A acts much like a single-component refrigerant, any change in composition due to a leak is minimal. The system can be topped off without removing the entire charge.
Freon poisoning can even be fatal after 72 hours of prolonged exposure to high amounts of the chemical. It is essential to know how to detect freon, the signs of freon poisoning, what treatment options are available, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Since R410A refrigerant is charged under higher pressure, charging an R22 system with it will increase the force within the coolant lines. The pressure can become high enough for parts of the system to rupture. At the very least, leaks will occur. Mixing refrigerants is not an option either.