AC Refrigerant: Everything You Need to Know
AC refrigerant is a vital component of your air conditioning system, responsible for transferring heat and cooling the air. Below, we provide you with everything you need to know about AC refrigerant. If you ever have any questions or concerns about AC refrigerant, always consult a professional HVAC technician.
What is AC Refrigerant?
AC refrigerant is a chemical that absorbs heat from indoor air, carries it to the outdoor condenser unit, and releases it into the surrounding environment. It continuously changes from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure liquid and back to a gas, facilitating heat transfer and cooling.
2 Types of AC Refrigerants
- R-22 (Freon): R-22 was commonly used in older AC systems but is being phased out due to its harmful environmental impact. Its production and import have been banned in several countries. It is being replaced by more environmentally friendly alternatives.
- R-410A: R-410A—also known as Puron—is the most widely used refrigerant today. It is chlorine-free, ozone-friendly, and is very efficient. AC systems designed for R-410A are more energy-efficient and comply with environmental regulations.
Refrigerant Efficiency and SEER Ratings
The efficiency of AC refrigerants is measured by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. Higher SEER ratings indicate greater energy efficiency and cost savings. AC systems using newer refrigerants like R-410A tend to have higher SEER ratings. Click here to learn more about SEER ratings.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks can be caused by aging components, corrosion, or physical damage to refrigerant lines. Signs of a refrigerant leak include reduced cooling, longer cooling cycles, frozen lines, or hissing sounds near the AC unit. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, call for an emergency AC repair as soon as possible.
Proper Refrigerant Charge
Correct refrigerant charge is crucial for your air conditioner’s performance. Too much or too little refrigerant can lead to decreased cooling efficiency, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the compressor.
If your AC system requires a refrigerant recharge, it is crucial to hire a professional HVAC technician. They will repair any leaks before adding refrigerant to the system. Attempting to recharge refrigerant yourself without addressing leaks can lead to wasted refrigerant and environmental harm.
Note: if a technician says you need a recharge and does not check for leaks, this is likely a scam. Refrigerant runs through a closed system and does not run out. Click here to learn more about common HVAC scams.
While it is helpful to know about AC refrigerant, certain things should be left to a professional, including choosing the right refrigerant type, ensuring proper refrigerant charge, and addressing leaks.
In need of AC maintenance in the Denver Metro Area? Grand Home Services in Aurora, CO provides AC replacement, tune-up, and repair services throughout Denver. Call us or contact us online today.
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!
4 Common AC Evaporator Coil Issues and How to Address Them
The air conditioner evaporator coil is a critical component of your AC system, responsible for removing heat from the air and cooling your home. However, like any other part of your air conditioner, the evaporator coil is prone to wear and tear. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common issues that can arise with the evaporator coil and what you can do to address them.
Note: issues with the evaporator coil should not be taken lightly as it handles refrigerant and is one of the most expensive parts to replace in an air conditioner.
1. Dirty or Clogged Evaporator Coil
A dirty or clogged evaporator coil can cause your air conditioner to function less efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and reduced cooling performance. Eventually, this could lead to the AC unit running constantly or a complete system failure. If you notice that your AC system isn’t cooling your home as well as it used to, a dirty evaporator coil may be to blame.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coil
If your evaporator coil freezes over, your AC system will stop working altogether. This can occur if the coil becomes too dirty, if the refrigerant level is low, or if there’s an issue with the blower fan. To fix a frozen evaporator coil, you’ll need to turn off your AC system and let the coil thaw completely before calling a professional to diagnose the underlying cause of this freeze-up.
3. Corrosion or Leaks
Over time, the evaporator coil may develop leaks or corrode, leading to a loss of refrigerant and reduced cooling performance. If you suspect that your evaporator coil is leaking, you’ll need to have it replaced by a professional HVAC technician. A repair is almost never an option with evaporator coils. This should be taken care of as soon as possible; refrigerant is extremely dangerous and can lead to long-term health problems.
4. Improper Size
If your air conditioner’s evaporator coil is too small, it may not be able to cool your living space effectively. Conversely, if the coil is too large, it may cause your AC system to short cycle, leading to reduced efficiency and increased wear and tear. This issue only arises if your evaporator coil has been replaced and the wrong size was installed. You’ll need to have a professional HVAC technician recommend the appropriate size for your evaporator coil.
The evaporator coil is a critical component of your air conditioner, and any issues with it can lead to reduced cooling performance and increased energy bills. If you suspect your evaporator coil is dirty, frozen, leaking, or improperly sized, address the issue as soon as possible.
Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides AC inspections, repair, cleaning and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Whether it is an emergency or you just need some guidance, do not hesitate to reach out to us! Contact us online or call us today.
How Often Should I Get an Air Conditioner Tune-Up?
Your air conditioner is a valuable investment in your home’s comfort and well-being and requires regular maintenance to ensure that it runs effectively and efficiently. Regular air conditioner tune-up services can help extend the lifespan of your AC system, improve its energy efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of costly breakdowns or repairs. But how often should you get your air conditioner serviced?
The rule of thumb is to get an air conditioner tune-up once per year, preferably during the spring season, but there are several factors that determine how often you should get an AC tune-up. Below we discuss some of these factors and when you should consider getting tune-ups more often. When in doubt, ask your HVAC technician what they recommend!
1. Age of the AC Unit
If your AC unit is less than five years old and has been well-maintained, it is recommended you get the unit serviced once a year. However, if your air conditioner is older than five years, it should be serviced twice a year. This ensures that it is functioning at its best and will prevent repairs.
2. Frequency of Use
If you live in an area with hot and humid summers and rely heavily on your air conditioner, it’s recommended to have it serviced twice a year. Here in Denver, our summers are quite mild, but some years are much hotter than others. If you find that your AC unit is running 24/7 for an extended period of time, a mid-season AC tune-up should be considered. Frequent use of your AC system can cause wear and tear, and regular tune-up services can help prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your unit.
3. Maintenance History
If you’ve neglected regular air conditioner maintenance in the past, you may need to have it serviced more frequently. This will help to address any underlying issues that may have developed. Your HVAC technician can assess the state of your AC unit and recommend the appropriate tune-up schedule.
4. Warranty Requirements
Some HVAC manufacturer warranties require regular maintenance as a condition of coverage. Be sure to check your warranty documents to determine the recommended tune-up schedule to maintain your warranty coverage.
Regular air conditioner tune-ups are an essential part of maintaining your AC unit. If you have questions about AC tune-ups, you’d like a professional HVAC technician to assess the state of your AC system, or you need to schedule an AC tune-up, contact Grand Home Services today! We are located in Aurora and provide AC tune-ups, repairs, and replacements throughout the Denver Metro Area.
When to Get a Second Opinion for an HVAC Repair
Reputable HVAC professionals do their best to provide the most honest and trustworthy solutions, but there are some scenarios where having another company check your unit is always helpful and will give you peace of mind. You may even talk to two very reputable companies and one tells you your unit needs to be replaced while the other says you only need a repair. Every HVAC company runs a little differently, so second opinions are even more important in knowing what the problem is, if any, and knowing what your options are.
It can always feel a little awkward telling an HVAC technician you would like to get a second opinion, but most reliable HVAC companies will understand, and some even encourage them. Here are four common scenarios where you should consider getting a second opinion.
You’re getting a cleaning/tune-up and now a repair is “necessary”
Some unethical companies will offer very inexpensive tune-ups or very limited time specials just to get in the door. Once they are looking at your unit, they can say any part needs replacing. If it’s inexpensive and they can prove your unit needs a repair, a second opinion is not necessary. If it’s portrayed as an ‘urgent’ repair and it’s very expensive, it might be worth getting a second opinion.
The repair or replacement cost is shockingly high
When you are told a repair will be extremely expensive, it is always best to get a second opinion. This could be an unnecessary repair, price gouging, or simply an expensive part that really does need replacing. It’s always best to get a second opinion so you can ensure this repair is necessary and really is this expensive. Worst case, you get a similar or more expensive estimate from another company, but now you know the repair really is necessary. You may even get a cheaper estimate from another company.
Take a look at the 4 most expensive furnace repairs and 4 most expensive AC repairs. With all these repairs, you can expect a high repair estimate.
Your unit is fairly new and the cost to repair is high
The most expensive furnace and AC repairs are common among older units and very uncommon among new units. If your unit is new and you are told your unit needs a very expensive repair, always get a second opinion. Depending on the age of the unit, you may be under warranty.
You’ve never noticed an issue
When an expensive HVAC part needs to be repaired or replaced, chances are you have seen, heard, or even smelled a sign that something is wrong. If you are told something needs to be repaired and it is expensive and urgent, we recommend getting a second opinion. Though furnaces and AC units are complex and there are a lot of moving parts, when something malfunctions, there is usually a sign.
When in doubt, get a second opinion! You could save yourself hundreds of dollars, and you may even save yourself from a scam. If you are still unsure, do a little research online. There are plenty of resources available online that will give you typical repair and replacement costs.
In need of a second opinion in the Denver Metro Area? Grand Home Services is located in Aurora and we’d be happy to provide a second opinion. Unfortunately, HVAC scams are quite common, and we see and hear about them all the time. Please do not hesitate to call us, contact us online, or call another professional HVAC company to get a second opinion.
5 Ways to Prepare Your AC for Summer
Your air conditioner will likely work when you turn it on for the first time in months, but that doesn’t mean you should do nothing and leave it be. When your air conditioner sits for months, dust and debris collect and that should be cleared before it runs consistently. This ensures the unit runs at peak efficiency, prevents unnecessary repairs, and extends the lifespan of the unit.
Below are 5 ways to prepare your air conditioner for summer. If you aren’t comfortable taking care of any of these steps or need some extra guidance, always call a professional!
1. Safety First
Before you do anything, make sure to cut the power to the air conditioner. This ensures the unit does not turn on when you’re working on it, keeping you and the unit safe. Most air conditioners have a switch near the outdoor unit, usually in a metal box.
2. Clean or Replace the Filters
At an absolute minimum, your AC filter needs to be changed before the summer season. Changing your filter before the season will undoubtedly lower your energy bill. These filters are very inexpensive and could be saving you hundreds of dollars per season. In addition, changing your filters on a regular basis prolongs the lifespan of your system, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your AC unit and vents clean.
3. Clean and Clear Debris
While our winters are quite mild here in Aurora, Colorado, it is inevitable our outdoor units will accumulate leaves, dust and debris throughout Winter. It is very important you clear any debris that may get into the unit. You can spray the sides of the unit and the area around the unit with a hose, wipe the fan blades with a damp rag, and vacuum the coils with a vacuum brush attachment. This simple step will keep your unit running efficiently and help prevent a freeze-up.
4. Program your Thermostat
Another great way to get your air conditioner ready for Summer is to program your thermostat beyond simply setting the temperature. It’s best to set the temperature a few degrees higher during the day, helping your unit not work so hard to cool your home when the outdoor temperature is at its highest. Many thermostats now allow you to set an “away” temperature, which should be a few degrees higher than your “day” temperature. This can be used when you are gone for days at a time, or even during a normal weekday when no one is home.
5. Talk to a Pro
While this is not absolutely necessary, it is always a good idea to have a professional inspect, clean and tune-up your AC unit. A professional HVAC technician will ensure the unit runs at peak efficiency throughout the summer season and does not need any repairs. Even better, they can provide tips on maintaining the unit yourself.
Here in Colorado, we experience some very high temperatures and really put our air conditioners to the test. Make sure your AC unit is ready for Summer! Contact Grand Home Services online or give us a call for an AC tune-up, cleaning, or even emergency repair. We are located in Aurora and service the Denver Metro Area.
5 AC Problems Caused by a Dirty Filter
We are sure you’ve heard it before: change your AC unit filter on a regular basis! After all, it’s a quick and inexpensive task, but many don’t quite understand how important a clean filter is for your entire system.
Simply put, a dirty AC filter inhibits your air conditioner from doing its one job. If left long enough, a dirty filter will wreak havoc on your AC unit and cause system breakdowns and expensive repairs that could have been avoided. Below we walk through 5 very common AC problems caused by a dirty filter.
Freeze-Up
When your air conditioner’s filter fills with dust and debris, the air flowing through your unit is no longer as clean as it should be. This results in a buildup of dust on the evaporator coil which leads to the coils freezing up. Eventually the coils defrost, water leaks from the unit, and the process starts over.
If your unit experiences a freeze-up, we recommend getting an AC unit inspection and cleaning. Though the initial culprit was a dirty filter, your unit must be cleaned to fix this issue.
Short-Cycling
(new article: why does my AC keep turning on and off)
When your filter is dirty and the airflow through the unit is inhibited, your air conditioning system must work harder than normal to reach your set temperature. This overworking can cause the unit to freeze-up or overheat, both of which can force your unit to shut off prematurely and short-cycle.
Higher Utility Bill
A dirty filter restricts the airflow through the unit causing your unit to overwork to reach your desired temperature. This will cause your AC unit to run more often and longer than necessary, raising your monthly utility bill.
Shorter Lifespan
When a manufacturer provides the typical lifespan of their AC unit, this comes with the expectation that the unit is properly maintained. An overworked, poorly maintained unit is bound to have a shorter lifespan. If you neglect to change your AC filter, your unit must work harder than necessary, increasing wear and tear. Even worse, dust and debris can cause a system failure, forcing you to buy a new AC unit.
Failed Compressor
One of the most expensive repairs your AC unit might require is a compressor replacement. When your unit is dirty, your compressor is taking the brunt of the extra workload. This will eventually lead to the compressor overheating and failing, requiring a replacement. Due to the cost, many HVAC contractors recommend replacing the entire AC unit. Many times, this expensive repair can be avoided with a cheap filter replacement!
Not sure what filter you need or how often you should be replacing your filter? Check out our articles below. Always refer to your AC unit’s manufacturer recommendations and speak with an HVAC professional if you have questions.
https://grandhomeservicesllc.com/the-4-types-of-hvac-filters/
https://grandhomeservicesllc.com/how-often-should-i-replace-my-air-filters/
In need of an AC unit inspection, cleaning, repair, replacement, or just have a question? Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides air conditioning services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
Why Does My AC Keep Turning On and Off?
If your air conditioner is switching on and off more than usual, it is important you get it fixed as soon as possible. An AC unit repeatedly switching on and off will raise your monthly bill, cause extra wear and tear on the unit itself, shorten the lifespan of the unit and create the need for more repairs.
Fortunately, the cause of a short-cycling AC unit is often a quick fix. Below are the most common reasons your air conditioner constantly turns on and off, a few of which you can check and even fix yourself. When in doubt, call a professional!
1. Thermostat Problems
One of the most common culprits to a short-cycling AC unit is a faulty thermostat. Your thermostat is in charge of telling your air conditioner when to run, so if your AC unit is turning on and off more than usual, always check the thermostat first. The issue could be electrical, meaning the thermostat is wired improperly or needs new batteries. It could also be due to poor thermostat placement. Your thermostat should be placed somewhere where it will get the best possible temperature reading. If it is near a window, warm room, or air vent, the thermostat is receiving an inaccurate reading.
2. Dirty Filter
Another common culprit with a simple fix is a dirty filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow which makes the AC unit work harder to reach your desired temperature. This can cause the unit to freeze-up or overheat and shut off prematurely. Make sure you change your filter as often as the AC unit manufacturer recommends. A dirty filter causes many more problems than this one!
3. Frozen Coils
If your evaporator coils are caked in dirt and debris or you have a refrigerant leak, your coils will freeze-up and cause the AC unit to shut off. Oftentimes, the AC unit will sporadically turn on and off as it attempts to regulate the pressure and reach your desired temperature. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, shut off the unit and call for a repair immediately.
4. An Oversized AC Unit
Many are surprised to learn that a larger-than-necessary air conditioner is not what you want. If your unit is too large for your square footage and climate, it will unevenly cool your home and turn on and off too frequently. A short-cycling unit uses more energy, will require more repairs, and will have a shorter lifespan, all of which cost you more money.
If you aren’t sure why your AC is repeatedly turning on and off, always call a professional. This short-cycling is causing unnecessary wear and tear on the unit, and it could be the result of something more serious like an electrical problem.
In need of an AC repair? Grand Home Services in Aurora provides air conditioner repair, inspection, and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
4 Common Air Conditioner Smells & How to Fix Them
Is your air conditioner releasing a bad or weird smell into your home? What does it mean, and can you fix it yourself? Below we walk through 4 common smells that might be coming from your air conditioner, what it means, and whether it is cause for concern. As with all HVAC questions or concerns, always call an HVAC technician if you are unsure!
1. Rotten Eggs
If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, that almost always means there is a gas leak in your house. Natural gas is odorless, but gas companies add the smell so you know when there is a leak. The gas reduces oxygen levels in your body which can be fatal. It can also catch fire and explode. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your gas supply immediately and call your local fire department.
2. Burning
If you just turned on your air conditioner for the first time in several months and it smells like something is burning, this could be dust burning. Wait a few minutes to see if the smell dissipates. If it does not go away, the burning smell could be a mechanical problem and a fire hazard. Switch off the system immediately and call an HVAC technician for an emergency repair.
3. Gunpowder
The smell of gunpowder is associated with electrical odors. This odor is very distinct and should never be ignored. It is likely caused by a fried fan motor or circuit board. No matter the culprit, you will need to get your AC repaired before using it again. Switch off the system and call an HVAC technician for a repair before turning on the unit again.
4. Mold or mildew
Smelling mold or mildew when your air conditioner switches on is quite common. When your air conditioner cools the air, condensation builds up and needs somewhere to go. If your condensate drain line is clogged, this moisture has nowhere to go, allowing mold and mildew to grow in the unit and in your ductwork. Shut off your unit and check the drain line and indoor AC unit for mold and mildew. You can unclog a drain line and clean an AC unit yourself, but if you have never done this before, we recommend calling a professional.
There are a variety of less-common odors that can come from your AC unit, including chemical smells, exhaust, or something that just smells terrible. Always turn off your unit if you think something is wrong and call for an AC unit inspection and repair. Allowing your unit to continue to run could be damaging the unit itself and be hazardous to your health.
Need an air conditioner inspection, repair, or replacement? Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides these services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Contact us online or call us today!
Why is my air conditioner leaking water?
Why is your air conditioner leaking water, and what are you supposed to do? Water leaking from your AC unit can cause a lot of damage, so it’s important you address the issue and fix it as soon as possible.
When your air conditioner cools warm air, condensation builds on the evaporator coils and drips into a drip pan. This drip pan leads to a condensate drain line that drains the water outside of your home, so you should not have any water leaking inside.
As with any home appliance, sometimes something goes wrong. For air conditioners, it is not uncommon for water to be leaking from the unit. Below are 3 common culprits that cause your air conditioner to leak water inside the home and what you should do to resolve the problem.
Your filter is dirty
If your air filter is very dirty, your air conditioner will have trouble pulling air through the filter and into the unit which means less air is moving over the evaporator coils. As a result, the coils become too cold and freeze. As these frozen coils defrost, the ice melts and an unusually large amount of water drips into the pan causing it to overflow and leak into your home. Make sure to replace your filter as often as the AC unit’s manufacturer recommends.
Your unit is low on refrigerant
When your air conditioner turns on, the refrigerant starts running through the evaporator coils making them very cold. If the refrigerant is low, there is less heat being absorbed and the coils get too cold and freeze. The refrigerant runs through a closed system, so if your refrigerant is low, this means there is a leak.
This is not something you can repair yourself. You should turn off the AC unit and call for a repair immediately. If you see that the coils are frozen, keep an eye out for leaking water while it defrosts.
Your condensate drain line is clogged
As your air conditioner creates condensation during the cooling process, it drains through the condensate drain line. If this drain line gets clogged, the water has nowhere to go and will leak from the unit inside your home. A clogged drain line can be caused by a dirty filter, debris in the drain line or lack of maintenance to the unit.
You can unclog the drain line yourself by turning off the unit and using a thin wire brush to break up the clog. You can also use your wet/dry vacuum to suck out any debris or flush the drain line with distilled vinegar. If you can’t get the drain line unclogged yourself, always call an HVAC professional!
Denver Air Conditioner leaking water?
Is your Denver air conditioner leaking water? Grand Home Services has seen this problem before and is here to help you solve the problem. We are located in Aurora and provide air conditioner cleaning, repair and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us at 720-365-1187 or contact us online to schedule an AC repair in the Denver Metro Area today!
