For many homeowners, an air conditioner is a complex mishmash of moving parts that keep your home cool and comfortable. While you don’t necessarily have to know the ins and outs of your system, it’s always a good idea to know a bit about your air conditioner.
Freon is a gas that’s compressed inside of your evaporator coils and used to cool the air in your home. As air cycles inside of your air conditioner, it flows over those same coils, which remove excess moisture and pumps out crisp and comfortable air.
If your system is low on freon or leaking freon, you’re going to need professional help. Freon recharging is a simple process that can easily restore the flow of cold air to your home. But without professional help, you’ll be looking at more serious repair issues in no time.
How do You Recharge Freon?
If you’re a DIY savvy person, chances are you may have tried your hand at recharging the freon in your car. While the idea is the same in your home, the systems are completely different.
Your HVAC system works on a delicate balance where levels need to be consistent, which is why you can’t just pump new freon into your unit whenever you want. A freon recharge or replacement is carried out by a professional AC contractor.
They will first check the system levels to determine if it’s low or not. If your AC is low on freon, chances are you’re noticing fluctuating temperatures or higher energy costs. These issues will stem either from a system low on freon or an evaporator coil leak.
The Freon Replacement Process
Like your car, your air conditioner has a recharging port for the freon, however, this port may not be easy to find without the right know-how.
Sometimes located inside the home and other times in the outside fan, this charge port is where the entire process is completed.
It allows your contractor a sport to gauge the current levels, while also providing access for recharging. While the recharge will give get your air conditioner working again, the need for the service could be a sign of a larger issue.
Low freon is often caused by a leak in the evaporator coil. This often results in frozen coils, which can also limit how much cold air you get in your home. Be on the lookout for water leaks under your AC, as this can be an indication of a more serious problem.
Protect Your Home & Your Budget
Any homeowner will tell you, the need for expensive repairs can be a hassle, but in many instances, a simple recharge can outweigh the cost of an AC emergency.
Not only do you run the risk of getting a ticket for improper freon recharging, but also you can actually cause other issues like electrical damage.
For homeowners in and around the Sparks area, 4 Seasons Heating & Cooling, LLC is your reliable AC repair company. We offer detailed freon testing and recharging, and can also help maintain your air conditioner so even during those sunny summer days, you'll be cool and comfortable inside your home!