Why Refrigerant Leaks Are So Serious

Refrigerant is often overlooked as part of the AC system, but it is the refrigerant that works to keep your home cool. Your AC is a sealed unit and refrigerant should not leak out, but when it does, it needs to be taken very seriously. If you suspect your AC has a refrigerant leak, call for an urgent air conditioning repair in Indianapolis, IN

Types of AC Refrigerant

Whether it’s in liquid or gas form, refrigerant is sealed in the copper coils of your AC system. The most common types of refrigerant are:

• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs); including R12, which is no longer in production
• Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs); including R22, also recently phased out
• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs); including R410A and R134, considered safer 

R22, also known as freon, was finally phased out in 2020 because it is so harmful to the environment. However, freon was the major AC refrigerant used for many decades. Most AC units that are more than a couple of years old contain freon.

Why Is Refrigerant So Dangerous?

Freon is a deadly, toxic substance that should not be inhaled or handled by anyone except experts. Because it is so highly toxic, freon inhalation can cause death, and leaks cause ozone depletion and environmental damage. 

The dangers of freon leaks are so significant that the EPA has established laws governing its use. The laws dictate that only licensed HVAC technicians are able to purchase refrigerants. 

Fortunately, R22 was replaced by HFCs, which are much safer for the environment, but even they are not 100% safe. Any type of refrigerant leak must be addressed immediately. 

Refrigerant Leaks

You may have an AC refrigerant leak if you are experiencing any of the following problems:

• Your AC is struggling to cool your home
• The air is warm rather than cool
• There’s ice on the refrigerant lines and condenser
• An hvac company has ever had to add refrigerant 

At the first sign of any of these issues, switch your AC off and call for a professional air conditioning repair in Indianapolis, IN. Never take chances with a possible refrigerant leak. 

Emergency Air Conditioning Repair in Indianapolis, IN

The AC technicians at Vital Heating & Air are highly experienced in refrigerant leak repairs. We perform top-quality repairs on all types of AC systems, and we will provide you with 100% customer satisfaction. Don’t trust your AC to anyone but the experts at Vital Heating & Air.