For the most difficult leaks, try a pressure resistance test. This uses compressed gas to reveal punctures in an air conditioning system. Pump compressed nitrogen or other gas into the air conditioner system. Watch the pressure gauges for fluctuating air pressure, which confirms the presence of a leak.
No. Freon is a VERY stable molecule and won't break down over time. The only way it can escape from a cooling system is via a leak of some sort.
Normally, this occurs at the location of the evaporator coil, but is not the only place a leak can stem from. If you lose enough freon from your HVAC system, your air conditioner won't work and will need servicing.
Can you stay in a house with a Freon leak? While a small leak in your AC unit may not pose an immediate danger, it's essential to address the issue promptly. Leaking refrigerant can lead to inefficient cooling and higher utility bills, and prolonged exposure might cause health issues.
If you simply need a top off of refrigerant, you can expect to pay anywhere from $160-$375. If you need a repair for the leak itself, you can anticipate a higher bill. For refrigerant leak detection and air conditioning repair you may pay anywhere from $550 to $1,600.
Too little refrigerant also risks freezing the evaporator coil inside your home. The first problem with a frozen coil is the airflow restriction it causes, preventing air from circulating back out. The second problem is the water it creates once the ice melts, risking further damage around your AC.
3. System Damage. Operating an air conditioning system with a refrigerant leak could cause considerable damage to the system. The compressor, a key component of your AC, relies on refrigerant to function and cool.
Small leaks may be repairable, while larger leaks may require more extensive repairs or component replacements. Before making any repairs, the technician will isolate the AC system to prevent further loss of refrigerant. This often involves shutting off the power to the unit and closing the service valves.
It's important to note that low refrigerant levels don't always mean a leak. We often receive calls at Watkins Heating & Cooling from customers with low Freon who had their HVAC system installed by other companies.
Because the system is pressurized, Freon will continue to leak from the air conditioner even when it's off. A technician will inspect your system, repair leaks, and recharge the system with refrigerant.
Turn on your air conditioner and listen for any hissing or bubbling sounds. Unusual noises may indicate a refrigerant leak. If you notice such sounds, it's crucial to investigate further.
As mentioned earlier, Freon costs about $125 – $150 per pound. Most homeowners will pay in the range of $200 to $400 for a refill, depending on the type and size of their HVAC unit.
Keep an eye out for signs AC is low on freon, such as if your home takes longer to cool and the vents aren't blowing as much cool air. This, along with unusual sounds or ice on the refrigerant line, could signal low AC refrigerant levels.
Most ACs nowadays come shipped from the manufacturer with the exact amount of refrigerant that it will need for the duration of its life. So, unlike a car, your AC won't ever need to “fill up” on refrigerant unless something goes wrong with the system.
If you need refrigerant for your air conditioner, you'll need to contact a professional heating and cooling technician. Under EPA regulations, only a certified professional can recharge your home's HVAC system. You should never try to recharge the A/C yourself, even if you have a home air conditioner recharging kit.
The short answer is: You should turn off your AC unit and unplug it from the power source. If the leak is small, you can try to repair it yourself using a sealant or tape. If the leak is larger, you'll need to call a professional for repairs. Once the leak has been repaired, have your AC unit serviced.
Flush Condensate Drain Line
The repair cost to have the drain line flushed runs between $75 to $250.
The simple answer is, “Yes, but you absolutely should not do this.” If for any reason you suspect that your AC has a refrigerant leak, turn off the system and call for professionals to repair the leak and recharge the refrigerant to its factory-set level.