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Summertime is synonymous with hot, muggy weather. No matter where you live, the weather during the summer months can be brutal.
If you’re like most homeowners, your air conditioner is probably running nonstop to keep you cool. But what happens when your AC isn’t cooling like it used to? Maybe it’s not blowing cold air or it’s making weird noises. Before you call an HVAC technician, there are a handful of things you can do to determine if your AC needs Freon.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what Freon is, what causes an AC unit to lose Freon, and how to tell if your air conditioner needs Freon. Today’s blog will also provide some tips on how to extend the overall lifespan of your air conditioner and save money on your energy bill.
What Exactly Is Freon and Why Is It Important?
Freon is another name for chemicals known as halocarbons. These chemicals are made up of molecules that contain both carbon and chlorine atoms. Freon is used in a variety of applications, including refrigeration, air conditioning, and as a propellant in aerosol cans.
According to Clover Services, due to its ability to evaporate easily, Freon can also be used as a cleaning agent. Its most common use, however, is in refrigeration and air conditioning. When Freon is compressed, it turns into a liquid.
When the liquid Freon is allowed to expand, it absorbs heat from its surroundings. This property makes Freon an ideal coolant for refrigerators and air conditioners. In addition to its cooling properties, Freon is also non-flammable and non-toxic, making it safe to use in these devices. While Freon has many benefits, it is also considered a greenhouse gas.
As such, its use is regulated by the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty that aims to protect the Earth’s ozone layer.
Now that you know what Freon is, it’s time to address the question, “how do you know if your AC needs Freon?”.
The answer may surprise you.
How Do You Know If Your Air Conditioner Needs Freon?
If you’ve noticed that your home isn’t cooling as efficiently as it used to, it might be time to add more Freon to your air conditioner.
Adding Freon can help to restore your air conditioner’s ability to cool your home. However, it’s important to note that too much Freon can actually cause damage to your air conditioner, so it’s important to have a professional handle the job.
One is to check the pressure on the gauges. If the pressure is low, it means that the system is low on Freon. Another way to tell is by listening to the unit. If it sounds like it’s straining to run, it may be because it doesn’t have enough Freon.
Homeowners should note that adding too much Freon can damage the compressor, so it’s important to only add what is needed. In addition, you should also have your air conditioner serviced regularly to ensure that it’s operating at peak efficiency.
Where Can You Buy Freon Refill Kits for Your AC Unit?
Most people are familiar with the importance of keeping their homes well-insulated, but fewer know that Freon is the key to a good insulation job.
When it leaks, Freon can cause serious health problems, so it’s vital that you get any leaks fixed as soon as possible. Thankfully, you can buy a Freon refill kit at hardware stores across the country, and it’s relatively easy to do the job yourself.
Make sure you follow the instructions carefully, and wear reliable protective gear to avoid coming into contact with the gas. With a little effort, you can keep your home comfortable all year round without any worries about Freon leaks.
Make Sure You Only Add Freon If Your AC Unit Needs It
Overcharging can damage the compressor.
If your AC unit is low on Freon, it’s important to only add the amount that is needed. Overcharging the system can damage the compressor, which is a vital part of the AC unit. The compressor circulates the Freon throughout the system, so if it is damaged, the AC unit will not work properly.
If you’re not sure how much to add, consult a professional.
The Takeaway
If your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air, it may need Freon. Contact a professional HVAC service to have them diagnose the problem and add Freon as needed. A professional HVAC service will be able to tell you if adding Freon is the best solution for your air conditioner and provide other maintenance services as needed.
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