Freon Leak: What to Do if Your AC Refrigerant is Leaking

Air conditioning systems rely on refrigerants like Freon to cool indoor spaces efficiently. 

However, no system is foolproof, and Freon refrigerant leaks can compromise the system’s performance, leading to various operational, safety, and health issues.  

Understanding the causes, symptoms, dangers, and necessary actions regarding Freon leaks is crucial for maintaining a functional and safe AC unit. This article covers everything you need to know about identifying an AC refrigerant leak and what to do about it.

Keep reading to learn how to properly maintain your AC to avoid Freon leaks!

What Causes Refrigerant Leaks in an Air Conditioner?

Freon is a type of refrigerant —a group of colorless, odorless, nonflammable gases or liquids known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). 

Due to their excellent heat transfer properties, these compounds were once widely used as refrigerants in various cooling systems, including air conditioners and refrigerators. 

However, due to environmental hazards related to Freon, the compound is rarely still used by manufacturers of air conditioning units. As a result, anyone with an AC unit that uses Freon may not be aware of the potential risks and symptoms of a leak to watch out for. 

Refrigerant leaks in air conditioners can occur due to various reasons:

• Corrosion: Over time, the metal components of the system can corrode, causing small holes or cracks through which the refrigerant can escape. The longer these holes are left unaddressed, the bigger they become, transforming into an even larger expense and repair. 
• Vibration: Continuous vibration in the system can loosen connections or cause small fractures in pipes, leading to leaks. These vibrations can have many causes, making it crucial to place an AC unit in a stable and dry location away from potential vibrations. 
• Wear and Tear: The natural aging of the air conditioning system can cause joints, seals, or connectors to degrade, allowing refrigerant to leak. If you take exceptional care to ensure your AC is well-maintained, you can reduce normal wear and tear. 
• Poor Installation: Improper installation, including incorrect welding or fitting of pipes, can create weak spots in the system where leaks might occur. Like the other potential causes discussed already, a poor installation can worsen the longer it goes ignored. 
• Physical Damage: Accidental damage to the air conditioner, such as from impacts or heat damage, can cause leaks. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may even need to replace your AC unit entirely. 
• Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals or substances can cause damage to the system components, resulting in leaks. This makes it highly important to keep any dangerous or corrosive chemicals away from your AC unit. 

11 Freon Leak Symptoms

If you suspect you may have a Freon leak occurring in your AC system, the first key step is to identify the signs of the leak. Whether you plan to repair the leak yourself or call your local HVAC pros for help, knowing the symptoms of a Freon leak is vital.

Here are eleven signs that can indicate a Freon leak in an air conditioning system:

1. Decreased Cooling Performance: If your AC isn’t cooling your space as effectively as it used to, you may have a refrigerant leak. Reduced refrigerant levels impact the system’s ability to cool the air, which can be especially bothersome during the hotter months of the year. 
2. Increased Energy Bills: A sudden spike in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage might suggest an inefficient system due to a refrigerant leak, causing the AC to work harder to maintain temperatures.
3. Hissing Sounds: A noticeable hissing noise coming from the indoor or outdoor unit could signify a refrigerant leak. This sound might indicate the gas escaping from a crack or hole from which the Freon is escaping and will require immediate attention and repairs. 
4. Ice Build-Up: Ice forming on the refrigerant lines, coils, or other components of the air conditioner, especially during warmer weather, is a clear sign of low refrigerant levels due to a leak.
5. Warm Air: If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cold air, it could be due to insufficient refrigerant levels caused by a leak. As a result, your AC will circulate warm or room-temperature air without being able to cool the air as it passes through the system. 
6. Refrigerant Puddles: Visible pools or drips of refrigerant around the unit or near the refrigerant lines are some of the clearest indicators of a Freon leak. To prevent health-related issues, it is crucial to clean up refrigerant puddles as soon as they are discovered. 
7. Oil Stains: Refrigerant leaks often leave oily stains on the AC system components or the floor beneath the unit.
8. Frost on Outdoor Unit: Frost accumulation on the outdoor unit, even when the weather is warm, indicates a potential refrigerant leak affecting the unit’s cooling capacity. This makes it important to regularly check your system for any unwanted frost or ice build-up. 
9. Continuous Running: Your air conditioning system might run continuously as it struggles to reach the desired temperature due to low refrigerant levels. If you begin to notice your AC is running all the time but the air never gets any cooler, it may be time to check for a leak. 
10. Unusual Odors: Leaked refrigerant can produce a distinct chemical smell, which might be noticeable near the AC unit or through the vents.
11. Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to leaked refrigerants might cause respiratory problems or irritation to occupants in the vicinity of the AC system. Inhaling the compound at all is highly dangerous and should be avoided at all times. 

The Dangers of a Freon Leak 

A Freon leak is more than just an inconvenience — it is a hazard that must be dealt with immediately.

Freon leaks in air conditioning systems pose various environmental, health, and operational hazards. Addressing and understanding these risks is essential to properly handling refrigerant chemicals and compounds and correctly responding to Freon leaks.

Let’s take a look at the dangers of a Freon leak: 

• Environmental Impact: Freon, or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), used as refrigerants, are potent greenhouse gases. When released into the atmosphere due to a leak, they contribute to ozone depletion and global warming, impacting the environment adversely. This adverse environmental effect is one of the top reasons why Freon is no longer commonly used by AC system manufacturers. 
• Health Hazards: Inhalation of leaked Freon can lead to several health issues, especially when exposed to high concentrations. Symptoms may include dizziness, headaches, respiratory irritation, coughing, and — in severe cases — asphyxiation due to displacement of oxygen in enclosed spaces. When handling Freon or similar chemicals, always use precautions like gloves and a mask to protect your body from harm. 
• System Damage: Low refrigerant levels resulting from a leak can cause damage to the air conditioning system. The compressor, a crucial component, might fail or experience strain, leading to costly repairs or the need for a complete system replacement. 
• Legal Implications: Improper handling or release of refrigerants into the environment can result in legal consequences due to environmental regulations governing the handling and disposal of these substances. 

Given these dangers, addressing Freon leaks promptly and appropriately is crucial. 

Engaging with a certified HVAC technician ensures proper handling and repair of the leak, minimizing risks to both health and the environment. Additionally, preventive measures and regular maintenance can help mitigate the chances of Freon leaks in the air conditioning system, promoting safety and efficiency.

What To Do if You Have a Freon Leak

If you suspect a Freon leak in your air conditioning system, it is essential to take specific steps to ensure safety and address the issue effectively:

• Turn Off the AC: Immediately turn off the air conditioning unit when you identify a leak. This helps prevent further leakage and reduces the risks associated with inhaling leaked refrigerant. If you suspect a significant leak or experience symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or respiratory irritation, evacuate the immediate area. 
• Contact a Professional: Your best course of action when dealing with a Freon leak is to call a certified HVAC technician or air conditioning service provider with experience in handling refrigerants. Do not attempt to fix the leak yourself, as dealing with refrigerants requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Upon the technician’s arrival, follow their instructions and recommendations on how to deal with the leak safely. 
• Avoid Contact with Refrigerant: Refrain from touching or handling the leaked refrigerant until an HVAC professional arrives. Freon can cause skin irritation, and inhaling it can be harmful to your health. HVAC pros have the proper equipment and tools to safely handle Freon and similar compounds, making it wise to leave the leak clean-up to the professionals. 
• Ventilate the Area: If the leak is indoors, ensure proper ventilation to dissipate any lingering fumes or odors. While awaiting professional assistance, if the indoor environment becomes uncomfortable due to the lack of AC, consider using fans or seeking alternative cooling methods until the issue is resolved.
• Preventive Measures: Once the leak is fixed, consider discussing preventive measures with your HVAC technician to avoid future occurrences, such as scheduling regular maintenance checks and following recommended maintenance practices for your AC system.

Final Thoughts: Prevent Freon Leaks in Your AC

Preventing an AC refrigerant leak involves several proactive measures that can help maintain the integrity of your system and minimize the risk of leaks. 

One of the most important preventative measures to take is regular maintenance. By working with a certified HVAC technician, you can schedule regular maintenance and repairs for your AC unit that keeps it in great functional condition and ensures leaks are identified sooner.   

Additionally, regular inspections and timely repairs play a vital role in safeguarding the longevity and efficient operation of your AC unit while minimizing the risk of leaks.

A Freon leak in your air conditioner can lead to various complications, including environmental harm, health risks, and system damage. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the dangers, and taking swift action by contacting a professional are crucial steps to mitigate the impact of a refrigerant leak. 

If you suspect your AC system is leaking Freon, get in touch with your local HVAC provider today.