Summers in Maryland can really bring the heat. Your air conditioner works overtime to keep your household feeling comfortable all season long. If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home as well as it used to, it could be because of a blocked or dirty condenser coil or an issue with your Freon. Freon leaks require immediate attention. GAC Services offers 24/7 emergency services to inspect your AC when it no longer functions as it should. Read on to learn how to spot the signs of low Freon and what to do.
GAC Services protects your home from any potential Freon-related hazards. Contact our team at {{dc:acf:option_field field=”contact_info_phone_text”}} to schedule an AC inspection today!
Signs That Your AC May Need More Freon
Freon leaks are not common, but they happen. Knowing how to recognize the signs of low Freon in your AC can protect your household, the environment, and your entire AC system from damages. Signs that your AC may need more Freon include:
- Your home takes longer to cool.
- Your utility bills are higher than normal.
- Your vent air isn’t cold.
- Ice has accumulated on your refrigerant line.
- Your unit or refrigerant line is making hissing, bubbling, or banging noises.
- The air conditioner is constantly running but not cooling.
- Your vent is emitting a bad odor.
When you notice any of the above signs, don’t delay. Call our professional AC repair technicians at {{dc:acf:option_field field=”contact_info_phone_text”}} to inspect your system.
How Often Should You Add Freon to Your AC?
Freon shouldn’t run out. Your AC doesn’t use up your refrigerant during operation; it is a closed system, so Freon can’t escape unless there is a leak.
The most common reason a Freon leak will occur is because of erosion of the metal over time that allows small holes to form and release freon. Other issues with Freon are typically due to a factory defect, poor installation, or other damage.
What Should You Do if You Think You Have a Refrigerant Leak?
Freon is a health hazard because the substance is toxic and lethal. Freon leaks require expert care. Assuring no freon enters the airflow inside your home is of utmost importance. Inhaling freon is highly poisonous and can cause death. Freon leaks also deplete the ozone layer and are damaging to the environment.
If you notice a foul-smelling odor escaping your AC system during operation, call GAC Services immediately at {{dc:acf:option_field field=”contact_info_phone_text”}}. You may have a Freon leak.
Can I Recharge My Home AC Myself?
Because of the potential for personal injury and harm, handling freon should only be done by a trained AC technician licensed and certified to handle the substance. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends not replacing Freon or refrigerant by yourself for both health and environmental reasons. Only an EPA-licensed technician is legally allowed to reclaim and recharge Freon.
New Freon Regulations
As of January 1, 2020, Freon can no longer be imported or made in the United States. Freon, also known as R-22 and HCFC-22, has now been banned in the U.S. While this type of Freon was used for decades, manufacturers have created AC systems that don’t require this type of refrigerant since 2010. A new refrigerant, called R410A, or Puron, is now the refrigerant of choice since it doesn’t harm the ozone.
If you have an old AC system that still relies on Freon, learn how to upgrade your system to Puron with GAC Services. If you need an AC inspection due to problems with your AC cooling system, don’t delay! Especially if you think it might be a Freon issue.
GAC Services is a family-owned and -operated business that has served the Gaithersburg, Maryland, area for over 50 years with factory-trained and nationally certified technicians. With our upfront pricing and 100% service satisfaction guarantee, we’re the company you need to call for quality AC service in Maryland.
Contact GAC Services at {{dc:acf:option_field field=”contact_info_phone_text”}} to schedule an AC inspection today!
