When the summer heat starts creeping into homes across Bethalto, having an AC unit that runs reliably is more important than ever. But if your system isn’t cooling like it should, there could be a deeper issue at play. One common but often overlooked problem is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is what helps your AC remove warm air from your home, and when it runs low due to a leak, your system has to work harder just to maintain indoor comfort.
Unexpected breakdowns, weak airflow, or rising energy bills can all trace back to an issue with your AC’s refrigerant levels. Catching and fixing these leaks early helps you avoid expensive repairs and keeps your home cooler during the hottest stretches of summer. Understanding the signs and knowing how leaks are detected can save you time and help get things back to normal faster.
Identifying Signs Of A Refrigerant Leak
Not every cooling issue points to a refrigerant problem, but there are some clear signs that most homeowners in Bethalto can recognize with a bit of guidance. If your AC starts showing any of these changes, it might be time to get your system checked for a possible refrigerant leak.
Here are a few common symptoms:
– Weaker cooling performance: If your system runs but doesn’t seem to cool your home like it used to, low refrigerant could be the reason.
– Warm air from the vents: When the refrigerant is too low, the coil doesn’t absorb heat properly, so air blowing into your space might feel warmer than normal.
– Longer run times: You might notice the system working harder for longer periods, yet the temperature inside still doesn’t drop.
– Hissing or bubbling sounds: These sounds could mean the refrigerant is leaking out through a small hole or crack in the line.
– Ice on the evaporator coil: Ice build-up often forms when the refrigerant level is too low to absorb heat, leading to freezing inside the system.
– Higher energy bills: A system that’s losing refrigerant has to work overtime just to keep you comfortable, leading to higher electricity usage.
Let’s say your home starts feeling stuffy and your energy bill jumps for no clear reason. You check your thermostat and even though it’s set to 72 degrees, it never seems to cool below 76. And when you place your hand near the vent, the air feels barely cooler than room temperature. These clues might not scream refrigerant leak at first, but to a trained eye, they’re often one of the first things to rule out.
The earlier a leak is detected, the better the chances are of preventing added strain on your system. Ignoring these signs not only affects your comfort but can cause damage to other parts of the AC if left unresolved.
Common Detection Methods Used By Technicians
Our technicians use proven methods to locate refrigerant leaks quickly and safely. Each situation is different, but the goal is always the same: identify the problem without wasting time or damaging any part of the system. Depending on the layout or severity of the issue, one or more of these approaches may be used during a visit.
1. Visual Inspection
Technicians often begin with a close look at the AC’s main components. In cases where oil traces are visible around the coils or tubing, there’s a strong chance that refrigerant is escaping from that spot. This step is especially useful when the leak is large and easy to identify.
2. Electronic Leak Detectors
For smaller invisible leaks, our professionals use specialized tools that sense refrigerant in the air. These devices can pick up even low levels of leaked gas around connectors, joints, and coils. They are one of the most accurate and useful tools for tight areas or slow leaks that don’t show up clearly.
3. Ultraviolet (UV) Dye Tests
In cases where the leak isn’t immediately obvious, a UV dye can be added to the refrigerant. After the system runs for a short time, the technician shines a UV light along the lines and coils to pinpoint the leak. The dye glows under the light, clearly showing where the refrigerant is escaping.
4. Soap Bubble Test
This old but effective method involves applying a soap solution to areas where a leak is suspected. If bubbles start forming, it confirms the presence of a leak. This method is still used in tandem with other tools, especially during repairs and system checks.
Each detection method has its strengths. Choosing the best one depends on the system’s condition and past service history. But the goal always stays the same: locate the leak precisely so repairs can be done without delay. Addressing it properly keeps indoor air cool and removes unnecessary stress from your system as summer temperatures rise across Bethalto.
Why Prompt Leak Detection Is Crucial
Refrigerant leaks might seem small, but over time they can create much bigger problems for homeowners in Bethalto. The longer a leak goes unchecked, the higher the risk of damage to other parts of your AC system. A compressor, for instance, is especially vulnerable when refrigerant levels get too low. Repairing or replacing that part can be costly and stressful, especially during peak summer heat.
Beyond mechanical issues, a leaking system puts unnecessary strain on your energy usage. Since the AC has to work extra to hit the desired temperature, your utility bills can climb unexpectedly. What might seem like a minor performance hiccup can quickly lead to wasted energy and extra monthly costs. Catching the leak before that spiral begins is a practical way to keep everything running smooth.
Ignoring a refrigerant leak also creates a comfort problem. A home that stays stuffy even when the AC is running ends up frustrating everyone inside. Kids get cranky, sleep gets interrupted, and daily tasks feel harder in a space that doesn’t cool properly. Most people spend a good amount of time at home over the summer months in Bethalto, so it’s worth spotting and addressing early signs before the discomfort sets in.
How Our Professionals Handle Refrigerant Leaks
Once our technicians confirm that refrigerant is leaking from the AC system, they take a clear and thorough approach to fix the issue. The goal is to restore cooling performance, extend the system’s life, and prevent the leak from happening again anytime soon. The process is straightforward but detailed, and the steps usually include the following:
– Locating the exact source of the leak, using proper detection tools
– Isolating and repairing or replacing the damaged section of coil or tubing
– Verifying the system is sealed tight with follow-up checks
– Refilling the AC with the correct type and amount of refrigerant
– Running a full post-repair test to ensure it cools correctly
This type of work requires precision and training. If a technician cuts corners or adds the wrong refrigerant, your AC might drop back into poor performance again quickly. Our technicians know that accuracy here matters, especially when temperatures are rising in Bethalto and comfort can’t be compromised. Their steps don’t just patch the issue, they get the system back into working shape with a goal of keeping future issues from showing up.
Depending on how old the unit is or if it’s been serviced before, the process may take some extra attention. But once the leak is dealt with properly, the difference inside your home is immediate. You will notice less noise, better airflow, and more consistent temperatures throughout every room.
Staying Cool With Reliable AC Repair In Bethalto
A refrigerant leak can start small, but the impact builds up fast, especially when summer is in full swing. The discomfort, expense, and risk to your AC system are all avoidable if the issue gets diagnosed and fixed at the right time. That’s why knowing the signs matters just as much as understanding the fix.
Many homeowners in Bethalto wait too long to get professional attention because the symptoms don’t always seem urgent at first. But the moment warm air replaces cool air, or the system runs all day without doing its job, it’s worth calling in experienced help. There’s no need to settle for weak performance or constant tweaks to your thermostat when there’s a clear path to lasting comfort.
Reliable AC repair goes beyond quick patches. It looks at the system as a whole — what caused the issue, how to fix it, and how to keep it from recurring. By taking refrigerant leaks seriously, homeowners in Bethalto set themselves up for a summer that’s far more comfortable, energy efficient, and stress free.
At B & W Heating and Cooling, Inc, we know that a dependable AC system is crucial to stay cool during Bethalto summers. If you notice any signs of refrigerant leaks or weakened performance, our professionals can help restore your system efficiently with reliable repairs. Learn more about AC repair in Bethalto and keep your home comfortable by addressing issues before they worsen. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
