Air Conditioning Repair in Torrance

A client in Torrance, CA, contacted Pioneers Heating and Air for air conditioning repair. Their air conditioning unit took longer to cool, and they wanted to know the cause behind the drop in their unit's performance. After inspecting the outdoor unit, our HVAC technician discovered two leaks in their AC's refrigerant line. Our technician fixed the leaks and added refrigerant, and the client is now able to use his air conditioning without any issue.

AC problems are a common headache for homeowners, and refrigerant leaks are among them. Every year, thousands of homeowners contact air conditioning service only to discover that there is a refrigerant leak. However, the loss of refrigerant (also referred to as coolant or freon) is not a natural element in an air conditioner system's operation. A properly functioning air conditioner does not lose refrigerant with time because it circulates and maintains the same amount of refrigerant throughout its operation.

What causes refrigerant leaks?

It is a common misunderstanding that refrigerant leaks cause air conditioning systems to lose their cooling capacity. However, refrigerant leakage accounts for just a minor portion of cooling capacity loss. The majority of refrigerant loss is caused by punctures in the line and air ducts that allow the refrigerant to escape and leaks in the coils due to wear or damage.

Several factors can cause refrigerant leakage, including:

• Corrosion of the indoor coil's copper tube walls
• Factory defects in the AC unit
• Incorrect installation
• Deteriorated joints or connections
• Tube walls thinning due to normal wear and tear
• Vibration

How can you tell if the AC's refrigerant is leaking?

Increased electric bill

There's a probability that your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak if your electric bill has increased and usage levels are inconsistent with previous months. Leaking refrigerant can cause your AC unit to work harder and longer than usual, increasing energy consumption by as much as 25% during sweltering weather.

Inefficient cooling

When a refrigerant's levels are low, your AC system will take longer to cool down since it absorbs heat from your home and releases it outside. If your AC system has depleted much of its refrigerant, it will take longer to cool your home.

Humid indoor air

Your air conditioner dehumidifies as it removes warm air from within the house. The capacity of your air conditioner to dehumidify is equally as compromised as its cooling ability when its refrigerant is leaking. A well-functioning AC system should dehumidify your home in around 15 minutes. There could be a leak in your system if it takes hours for your AC to dehumidify your home to its average humidity level.

Ice on evaporator coils

The presence of ice crystals on the evaporator coil is another telltale sign of a refrigerant leak. The coils will not absorb enough heat if the refrigerant level running through the evaporator coils is insufficient. As a result, the condensation on the coils will freeze into ice crystals.

Water leaks

A refrigerant leak may be indicated by water coming from the AC unit. As your air conditioning system's refrigerant level becomes too low, it loses pressure. This can cause the coils to freeze, causing the drain pan to overflow and spill water when it melts. If you observe small puddles of water on the floor by your HVAC unit, it is likely experiencing a refrigerant leak.

Air Conditioner Repair Near Me

If you suspect your AC system is leaking refrigerant, contact a qualified technician at Pioneers Heating and Air to schedule service for your system. We provide air conditioning repair, maintenance, and installation services to homes throughout the San Gabriel Valley, including South Pasadena. We also offer other HVAC services, including heating repair, compressor fan repair, and furnace repair. To get your air conditioning unit serviced, call us today.