Options for Freon Leaks
Freon is the cooling component in the standard air conditioning system, which carries heat from your home and disperses it into the outdoors. Air conditioners are designed as closed systems, which helps keep the air cool and dry, but any leakage from the pipeline can be catastrophic to the entire system.
Freon does not dissipate or gets taken in, so there is no loss unless there is a leak in one of the pipes or fittings. HVAC professionals suggest that freon leaks be repaired without delay as they can worsen in time and cause the entire system to fail. Rusty coils and oily residue are the most apparent indication that Freon is leaking from your a/c system.
How do Freon leaks occur?
There are many possible reasons for leaks:
Weld joint fatigue: This is the most typical reason for Freon leaking and impacts the evaporator coils in the attics. In extreme conditions, the coil can have a heat variety of 35 to 125 degrees and can cycle through these conditions over a hundred times in a day. The weld joints consist of two metals that go through stress and pressure as they expand and contract at different rates depending on temperature. The pressure results in tiny fractures through which the refrigerant can leak out. Modern coils are designed to stand up to severe temperature level conditions for long periods.
Poor installation and welding strategies: The installation of air conditioning systems ought to be entrusted to only trusted HVAC specialists. Ensure your HVAC technician is adequately trained and has experience installing and maintaining air conditioners.
Physical damage to the pipes: Nails and screws that are drilled into the walls to hold the line set can cause damage to the pipelines. Usually, it is tough to identify and repair such leakages because they lie behind the walls or other areas obscured from view.
What are the repair options?
There are several repair options for Freon leakages—
Take care of the Leak: This is frequently a costly solution, and a proper leakage fix procedure includes the following:
Remove any remaining Freon
Repair the leak and replace the defective component
Install a new filter or drier
Check for additional leaks by pressurizing the system
Vacuum the system and charge with freon
New refrigerant: Old refrigerant contains contaminants that can turn the system acidic. This can wear down the components and pipes in the system. It is usually a good idea to replace the old refrigerant.
Leak Seal Treatment: This is a temporary fix that that can get you by for a short time before the formal repair is done.
Add more Freon: There is no guarantee that it will work as it does not fix the leak. Eventually, the Freon will leak out again.
Get a brand-new AC system: In the case of significant damage, you might think about a full system replacement.
The option of repair or replacement comes down to a financial choice of how long it will take you to recoup your costs. Talk with an experienced HVAC technician to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
CMB Air is residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair and company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call 813-447-1443 today!
