Air conditioning is a gift sent straight from heaven during the summer. The sweet relief of waking into a pleasantly cool house after being outside during the hot sticky day is like no other. But what happens when your air conditioner starts to break down? When your A/C stops workin,g your entire machine could be failing.
Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), more commonly know as Freon is a derivative of methane/ethane. It is used as a refrigerant, propellant, and solvent. Freon is commonly found in air conditioners as it has cooling properties. Most common residential properties use the R-22 version of chlorofluorocarbon in their air conditioners. Sometimes Freon levels can become low, so how do you know if your AC is low on Freon?
Signs that Freon is low
1) Low airflow in vents
2) Air coming from vents feel warm
3) Water on the floor near your unit
4) Ice buildup on copper lines from A/C to indoor coil
5) High electricity use
6) Longer wait for house to cool
Methods to detect leaks/low Freon
One option is to use an electronic refrigerant detector called a sniffer. This device will give off a sound and visual indication when the sending probe senses a leak. You can also inject fluorescent dye into the system. It will circulate the same path as the Freon and come out wherever there is a leak. Once you use an ultraviolet light to illuminate the system, the dye will glow and indicated where it has pooled.
You should also check your filters and change them every 30 days to make sure that they are kept clean. If you stand in front of your air handler and someone turns the thermostat to engage the air the fan should start up and you should be able to hear the refrigerant running. Touch the copper lines to see if they are getting any colder. If not then there is a problem with your Freon.
Continuing Issues
If you cannot seem to figure out what you want to do about your air conditioner you should seek professional help. Use TalkLocal to be put in contact with reliable local businesses almost immediately. You don’t have to do any work! Simply input your problem and availability and TalkLocal will do the rest. Within minutes your should be connected with a qualified HVAC company.
