Baton Rouge A/C Replacement Specialists: What to Know About Freon Leaks

There are many myths involving freon leaks. However, we are here to set the record straight on the many common questions concerning freon leaks in HVAC equipment.

Freon is a colorless and odorless gas that has been used in air conditioners and refrigerators since the 1920’s. It functions in your air conditioner by passing through a compressor that makes the gas very hot. The gas then passes into evaporation coils where it cools to a liquid, absorbing heat from the outside air. This creates a constant cycle of cold air.

Many of the myths concerning freon come from home owners being unsure of how to handle a leak in their unit. Let’s look at some of these myths and determine fact or fiction.

Myth- Freon Leaks are Typical and Can Be Ignored

This is a common myth among homeowners. Many believe that if you replace the freon, everything will be okay since your unit will blow cold air again once it has a normal level of freon. Leaks are frequent especially in older units and typically occur in the evaporation coils.

One of the biggest problems with this myth is that leaks get worse over time. Many leaks start as what is called a “champagne leak”, meaning that the leak is tiny and appears as bubbling at the site of the leak. Overtime, the leak will grow larger and liquid freon may begin to seep from the site of the leak which can ruin your air conditioner.

Simply refilling freon once it has leaked is not enough. The leak must be repaired as soon as possible. The best option is to replace the evaporator coil.

Myth- Freon Leaks Are Bad for the Environment

The University of California studied the effects of freon and CFC’s and hypothesized that these chemicals were polluting the air. Once studies concluded that freon was in fact damaging to the atmosphere it was banned from use inside aerosol cans. The reason that it is still used in a/c units and refrigeration is that it is contained. Thanks to a technology patented by GM, freon cooling systems do not release molecules into the air.

If you notice that you have a freon leak, it is best to get it repaired as quickly as possible. Glaze Heating and Air uses a leak detector to find the freon leak. Once it is located the expert technician can give you different options based on the typeof equipment you have, its age, and the type of freon it uses. Call today to schedule an inspection with one of our highly trained technicians to see that your air conditioner is running safely to protect your family and your wallet.