You come home on a hot day to a warm home. You were sure you left your air conditioner running. You check your thermostat and all systems are on. So what’s the problem and how do you fix it quick to stay cool on a hot summer day?
What is refrigerant?
Refrigerant is a fluid that absorbs your indoor heat and transfers it outside. You may know this fluid by the brand name “Freon” but there are other coolants that Twin City Heating and Air uses due to cost and environmental concerns. Refrigerant is an important part of your home air conditioning system and can have an impact on your comfort and your pocket book.
There are three main signs your air conditioner is low on refrigerant or Freon.
1. A Warmer Home
Your refrigerants job is to keep your home cool by transferring your warm air outside and recycling your cool air. When your refrigerant gets low, your home will take longer to cool off and your vents will seem to be blowing warm air. When you experience these signs, it may be time to call a professional.
2. Higher Bills
A second sign you may need to call a professional regarding your refrigerant is higher electric bills. When your system is low on coolant, it will need to work harder to keep your home cool. Compare your current electric bill with past months or last year’s bill to see if you are using more electricity to cool your home.
3. Ice Formations
It sounds strange, doesn’t it? Ice on your air conditioner in the middle of summer. If you find ice on your coils or anywhere else, it could be a sign that you’re low on refrigerant. When your unit it low on refrigerant, there will be a drop in pressure and temperature in your evaporator coil so when that extra humidity and condensation hits those coils, it freezes. Once you notice any ice forming on your unit, be sure to give us a call.
The best next step when you suspect your unit is low on refrigerant is to call a professional for an inspection. Twin City Heating and Air has you covered and provides air conditioning inspections and repairs to keep your A/C unit humming all summer long.
