During the middle of summer in Delano, your AC isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. But one common problem that can bring things to a halt is a refrigerant leak. When that happens, your system struggles to cool your space, energy bills start creeping up, and your comfort drops fast. If left alone, the issue can lead to long-term damage that costs way more than routine maintenance.
Refrigerant doesn’t just disappear. A drop in refrigerant levels usually means there’s a leak in the system that needs attention. It might be from age, damage, or faulty connections, but whatever the cause, it won’t fix itself. Ignoring the signs could wear out your AC faster and force it to work overtime, which only makes the issue worse. That’s why spotting a refrigerant leak early makes a big difference in keeping your home cool and your unit running efficiently.
Common Signs You May Have an AC Refrigerant Leak
When your AC starts behaving differently, it’s a good idea to look for signs of a refrigerant leak. These signs tend to show up early, but many homeowners overlook them because they’re subtle at first. Recognizing the red flags can help you act before the problem escalates.
Look out for these common symptoms:
– Hissing or bubbling noises near the AC unit when it’s running
– Ice forming on the evaporator coils or near the refrigerant lines
– Air blowing from the vents feels warm or less cool than usual
– The system seems to run longer than normal without reaching the set temperature
– Utility bills are noticeably higher despite similar usage
Each of these can be a warning that the refrigerant level is off. One homeowner in Delano noticed that their AC kept running but never cooled the house. There was no obvious damage on the outside, but a closer look revealed frost on the refrigerant line outside the unit. A technician later confirmed a slow leak that had been causing the coolant to drop little by little.
If you see any of these issues, don’t press the reset button or keep adjusting the thermostat. Those workarounds may feel like quick fixes, but they could put more pressure on already strained components. Tracking down the cause is the best way to prevent bigger problems down the line.
What Causes Refrigerant Leaks in AC Units
Refrigerant leaks don’t happen randomly. There’s usually a reason the system starts losing pressure, and knowing the common sources of the problem can help prevent it from catching you off guard the next time.
Here are a few causes worth knowing:
1. Wear and tear – Over time, the metal in your AC system can thin out or develop tiny cracks. These small gaps can slowly release refrigerant even if the unit still seems functional from the outside.
2. Corrosion of coils – The copper coils that carry refrigerant are prone to corrosion, especially in areas with moisture. When corrosive buildup eats away at the material, pinholes can form and allow refrigerant to seep out.
3. Loose or damaged connections – The fittings that connect the refrigerant lines or components can loosen over time, particularly if the unit vibrates frequently. If those seals and valves aren’t tight, refrigerant can leak without warning.
4. Physical impact – Accidental damage from yard equipment, animals, or even foot traffic around the outdoor unit can break or bend lines. A single bump in the wrong spot can be enough to cause a leak.
5. Improper installation – If your AC was installed with poor workmanship or rushed setups, stress points may develop in the lines. Even new systems aren’t immune if they weren’t handled properly from day one.
These causes often develop slowly, which is why routine checks make such a big difference. Once a leak starts, it won’t stop until it’s fixed directly. Even sealing off the visible part may not be enough if there are ongoing wear issues elsewhere in the system. Keeping refrigerant levels consistent depends on having intact, well-maintained components from start to finish.
How AC Refrigerant Leaks Are Found and Repaired
Once you’ve spotted signs of a refrigerant leak, the next step is identifying the exact source and fixing it properly. These systems are sealed and pressurized, so blindly applying a patch or refill won’t solve the issue and might make things worse. That’s why a full inspection and leak test should always come first.
Here’s how our professionals normally handle a refrigerant leak:
– First, they measure the refrigerant levels with specialized tools to confirm a drop
– If a leak is suspected, they use an electronic detector or ultraviolet dye to trace it
– Once found, the leak area is either repaired or the faulty part, like a coil or valve, is replaced
– After the repair, they vacuum the system to remove moisture and ensure the lines are fully sealed
– Finally, the refrigerant is recharged to the correct level, restoring the system’s performance
This isn’t a job for guesswork. Mistakes during the repair could leave the system still leaking or running inefficiently. Refilling the refrigerant without fixing the source is like adding air to a leaking tire. It might work for a bit, but the problem keeps coming back. When done correctly, repairs clear the issue and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Even if it seems small, a refrigerant issue can slowly damage the compressor or force the blower fan to work harder. These ripple effects can easily lead to bigger parts wearing out sooner than expected. Getting it fixed now saves you from having to replace more expensive components later.
Ways to Prevent Refrigerant Leaks Down the Road
Stopping leaks before they start is the best way to avoid cooling emergencies during Delano summers. Though some wear is unavoidable over the years, many system failures come from lack of basic upkeep. Taking small, steady steps can make a noticeable difference in how well your system performs and how often you run into issues like refrigerant loss.
Here are a few smart practices homeowners in Delano can follow:
1. Change air filters every 1 to 2 months. Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your system work harder than needed
2. Keep the outdoor unit clean and free of debris. Clear any grass, leaves, or dirt that’s gathered around it so it can breathe
3. Schedule a professional system check at least once a year. Trained technicians have the tools to catch early signs you won’t be able to see on your own
4. Watch for changes in how your AC runs. Strange sounds, ice buildup, or weakening airflow are all signs something needs attention
5. Avoid running the system with constant thermostat changes. Rapid shifts can stress components and worsen existing problems
A little effort goes a long way when it comes to maintenance. By building these habits into your routine, you’re more likely to catch problems while they’re small and cheaper to fix. Regular servicing also gives our technicians the chance to tighten fittings, check refrigerant pressures, and clean sensitive components that can fail over time.
The longer a unit goes without inspection, the harder it becomes to notice things like a slow leak. These issues are easy to miss when they don’t affect comfort right away. But the damage adds up, and that delayed response could mean days without AC during the hottest part of the year.
Protect Your Cooling System Before It Fails
In Delano, where summer temperatures make dependable air conditioning a real need, dealing with a leak the moment you notice it can save you more than just money. It keeps your home cool, your system running strong, and your daily life uninterrupted. Refrigerant leaks may start small, but they can snowball into bigger problems that require major repairs if ignored.
Everything from airflow to energy efficiency depends on your AC being fully sealed and properly charged. Any imbalance in that system leads to poor performance and extra strain. Checking for leaks, understanding their causes, and knowing how they’re repaired puts you in better control of your home’s comfort.
If your system isn’t cooling like it used to, has new sounds coming from it, or just doesn’t seem to shut off, don’t wait for it to stop working altogether. Leaks don’t go away on their own. Getting them addressed quickly is the smartest way to prevent costly breakdowns and long stretches of discomfort during high summer heat. With the right steps and regular attention, your AC can keep your home cool and reliable for years to come.
If your AC still isn’t performing at its best, MRV Service Air Inc. understands that finding timely help can make all the difference, which is why our professionals recommend relying on AC repair in Delano to address refrigerant leaks before more costly repairs develop. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
