6 Common Causes of an Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leak

Your air conditioner relies on refrigerant to cool the air inside your home. The refrigerant runs through a closed system, so if your refrigerant is low, this means there is a leak. Over time, your air conditioner may experience a refrigerant leak, which can cause your system to malfunction and fail to cool your home properly. Here are some of the common causes of air conditioner refrigerant leaks.

1. Age of the Air Conditioner

One of the most common causes of a refrigerant leak is the age of the air conditioner. Over time, the coils and connections inside the system can degrade and become more prone to leaks. This is especially true if you do not have a professional regularly maintain and service your air conditioner.

2. Corrosion

Another common cause of a refrigerant leak is corrosion. Corrosion can occur in the copper tubing and connections that make up the refrigerant lines. This can be caused by exposure to moisture or chemicals, as well as wear and tear over time.

3. Poor Installation

If an HVAC technician improperly installs your air conditioner, it can be more prone to refrigerant leaks. Improper installation can cause the refrigerant lines to become damaged or misaligned, leading to leaks. Click here for more signs of an improperly installed air conditioner.

4. Physical Damage

Physical damage to your air conditioner can also cause refrigerant leaks. This can occur if the unit is hit by a lawnmower or other outdoor equipment, or if debris such as sticks or rocks are thrown into the unit by a storm.

5. Wear and Tear

Like any other mechanical system, wear and tear over time can cause refrigerant leaks in your air conditioner. This can be caused by vibration, temperature changes, and other factors that cause the refrigerant lines to become damaged or worn out.

6. Poor Maintenance

Poor maintenance of your air conditioner can also contribute to refrigerant leaks. If your system is not serviced regularly, the refrigerant lines and connections may become clogged with dirt and debris, which can cause leaks. Additionally, if the system is not properly charged with refrigerant during maintenance, it can cause the system to overwork and potentially develop leaks.

It’s important to get regular AC tune-ups and maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure the unit runs at peak efficiently. If you suspect that your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak, it’s important to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue, as refrigerant leaks can be hazardous to your health and the environment.

Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides AC repair, tune-up, and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us today!