When there is a refrigerant leak in an air conditioning (AC) system, particularly in the split type where the evaporator coil is located inside the indoor unit, several issues can occur:
Reduced Cooling Capacity: The refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air and cooling it down. When there's a leak, the amount of refrigerant in the system decreases, leading to reduced cooling capacity. As a result, the AC may struggle to maintain the desired indoor temperature, and the cooling performance will be significantly compromised.
Icing on Evaporator Coil: With a refrigerant leak, the pressure inside the AC system drops, causing the temperature of the remaining refrigerant to decrease as well. As a result, the evaporator coil may get colder than normal. If the coil's temperature drops below freezing, the moisture in the air can condense and freeze on the coil's surface. This leads to the formation of ice on the evaporator coil, further hindering its ability to absorb heat.
Inefficient Operation: As the refrigerant leak continues, the system has to work harder and run for longer periods to try to reach the desired indoor temperature. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. The AC may also struggle to maintain a comfortable environment, causing discomfort for occupants.
Compressor Damage: The refrigerant is vital for cooling the compressor, which is the heart of the AC system. When there's a refrigerant leak, the compressor may run at lower refrigerant levels, which can lead to overheating and potential damage. If the issue persists, it can cause significant compressor failure, which is often expensive to repair or requires the replacement of the entire compressor unit.
System Malfunction: The AC system is designed to work with a specific amount of refrigerant, and any deviation can lead to system malfunctions and errors. Modern AC units have safety mechanisms that may shut down the system to prevent damage in the event of a refrigerant leak.
Continuous Leak: A refrigerant leak is not something that typically resolves on its own. If left unaddressed, the leak can worsen over time, causing further damage to the AC system and leading to a complete breakdown.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak or notice any of the mentioned issues with your air conditioner, it's crucial to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified HVAC professional. They can locate and fix the leak, recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant, and ensure that the AC is functioning optimally and efficiently. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can extend the life of your AC unit and prevent more costly problems in the long run.