How Freon Impacts Your AC System

Air conditioning systems have a variety of components and moving parts which can affect the performance of your system. One of the most important aspects for your AC unit is the Freon. Freon leaks are a common AC repair issue, and if you find that your unit doesn't seem to be cooling your home like it used to, you'll need to make sure that your Freon isn't leaking.

What is Freon?

Freon is the coolant, or refrigerant that allows your AC system to both get rid of its internal heat and make the air it discharges cool. If your Freon is leaking, you will witness these 4 signs:

• A Hissing Sound: When Freon leaks from a pressurized line, this is the sound the coolant makes as it escapes from the refrigerant line.
• Outside Unit Has Ice: When AC refrigerant is low, the evaporator coil gets very cold and causes the refrigerant to flow back to the copper lines, where the moisture around it will freeze it.
• Higher Energy Bills: Since a Freon leak limits your AC unit's efficiency, you'll likely notice higher energy costs while it's damaged.
• Vents are Blowing Warm Air: Low refrigerant levels mean that your AC isn't absorbing the heat from your home's air and you'll feel warm air from the vents.

What should I do if I have a Freon leak?

If you have a Freon leak, the professionals at HomeServe of New England can help. Our experts can evaluate your system and determine if you have a Freon leak and where the issue is occurring. We can then seal the leak and refill your refrigerant to normal levels.

What is R-22?

R-22 is one of the most common types of Freon. However, R-22 refrigerant is being phased out in 2020 as part of the Clean Air Act. Research from the EPA found that R-22 depletes the ozone, leading to the decision to end production of HVAC units that use R-22. Due to the fact that the R-22 supply is limited, this refrigerant will become more difficult and expensive to obtain as the supply runs out.

You can tell if your AC system uses R-22 by checking your unit for a nameplate that includes information about the system, including the type of refrigerant it uses. You can also find this information in your owner's manual. If you can't find it, the manufacturer's website is a good resource as well.

What should I do if I have a system that uses R-22?

If your home's AC unit does run on R-22, it could be good to start thinking about upgrading the system. While R-22 Freon will still be available for a few more years, eventually the prices will increase significantly and the supply will run out. Replacing your older system with an updated unit will not only eliminate Freon and environmental concerns, it could also make your home more energy efficient and help reduce your cooling costs. The experts at HomeServe of New England can help you identify the best options for your home and provide you with an expert AC system replacement.

HomeServe is Here to Help!

HomeServe of New England are Eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island's experts for all heating, air conditioning, and water heater service needs. We provide quality repair, replacement, and maintenance solutions, and we can help you get the right solution for your home's air conditioning unit. Whether you have a Freon leak, are concerned about your R-22 Freon, or want to upgrade to a more efficient cooling system, trust us to help with all your needs. Call us today at 877-808-1955 or contact us online to get started!