AC gas leaks: Why they happen and how to prevent them

Is your air conditioner not cooling like it used to? You might have an AC gas leak. These leaks don’t just leave you sweating but can also cost you more on energy bills and even impact you and your family’s health. Refrigerants, usually called ‘AC gas,’ are what cool your home by absorbing and carrying away the heat. When a leak happens, the gas starts to escape and your AC unit has to work harder and longer, thus resulting in higher electricity bills. 

Additionally, breathing in too much refrigerant can be harmful and pose serious health risks. So, to stay cool and safe, in this guide, we’ll take a look at why AC gas leaks happen and what you can do to stop them.

Why AC gas leaks happen

Gas leaks in AC units can happen for a number of reasons, but they are generally caused due to manufacturing defects, corrosion, or general wear and tear. Let’s briefly take a look at each one of them. Corrosion or wear and tear of AC parts is the most typical cause of an AC gas leak. For example, when AC coils are subjected to fluorides in water or chlorides in detergents, they can develop pitting corrosion, weakening the coils and allowing refrigerant to leak out.

Another type of corrosion, called formicary corrosion, occurs when acids, such as formic or acetic, build up on coils over time, causing damage and leaks. Manufacturing defects can also play a significant role in gas leaks. Things like a faulty Schrader valve (which helps seal the refrigerant) or damaged copper refrigerant lines (which transport the coolant around) can lead to leaks.

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Furthermore, improperly soldered joints or incorrectly installed connections are also frequent causes of leaks. Even control valves can be problematic if not properly connected or maintained. If your air conditioner isn’t cooling effectively, making unusual noises, or giving off a strange refrigerant smell, it’s time to check for leaks or call a professional technician.

What can you do to prevent AC gas leaks

Even though modern AC units are designed to prevent leaks, even the best systems can eventually face issues. But with regular upkeep and a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce the risk of leaks and keep that refreshing cool air flowing. Here are some steps you can take to prevent AC gas leaks and ensure your AC runs smoothly for years to come:

1. Regular check-ups and servicing

2. Choosing copper condensers

3. Keep filters clean

4. Optimal placement

5. Watch for wear and tear

1. Regular check-ups and servicing

Similar to how you schedule check-ups for your health, your AC also needs regular attention. Therefore, it’s recommended to plan and schedule an annual (or twice-a-year) maintenance check with a qualified technician to get your AC checked for leaks, refrigerant levels, and any potential problems. Usually, it’s best to have your AC serviced before and sometime after the summer season.

2. Choosing copper condensers

When buying an AC, always go for AC units equipped with copper condensers rather than aluminium ones. While aluminium models may be cheaper upfront, copper is more durable and resistant to corrosion, thus extending your AC’s lifespan and reducing the likelihood of leaks over time.

3. Keep filters clean

Make sure to clean your AC filters regularly since dirty filters strain the system and also raise the risk of leaks. So, to avoid any sort of issues, it’s best to clean your filters once every 45 days or so and also gently clear debris from the outdoor unit’s coil fins to maintain efficiency.

4. Optimal placement

Where you put your outdoor AC unit also matters and can make a big difference.

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Choose a shaded spot away from direct sunlight to improve efficiency and extend its lifespan. When not in use or during off-seasons, make sure to keep it covered to protect against weather damage.

5. Watch for wear and tear

Last but not least, keep an eye out for any bumps or bruises on your AC unit as sometimes even minor damage can escalate into leaks over time if left unchecked.

With these precautions, you can keep the temperature and electricity bills both down for a long time.