Low refrigerant levels in aircon can cause several issues. An aircon keeps your space cool and saves you from the scorching heat. But when it stops cooling properly, it can face several problems, including low refrigerant levels. The refrigerant is the main factor that absorbs heat and releases cool air.
If there is a leak, the aircon cannot function well. Ignoring this issue can cause even bigger problems like compressor failure. The longer this problem remains, the harder it becomes for the aircon to operate efficiently. Therefore, this article explains six signs that show your aircon has low refrigerant levels and why it is important to fix them fast.
Signs Air Conditioner Has Refrigerant Levels
When the aircon refrigerant level is low, some signs indicate the problem. The impact of this issue demands timely rectification to avoid further issues. Therefore, homeowners need to know about the signs that indicate the AC is low on refrigerant levels in Singapore.
LS Aircon Servicing Singapore highlights the most prominent signs that indicate low refrigerant levels in AC in Singapore. Moreover, they offer aircon repair, aircon relocation, and general services in Singapore.
1. Weak Cooling
When an aircon has enough refrigerant, it cools the room fast. If cooling takes too long, low refrigerant levels in air conditioner can be the probable culprit. The refrigerant transfers heat, so the air stays warm when reduced. Even at the lowest setting, the air will not feel cold.
This problem gets worse over time if it is not fixed. Therefore, it is important to check the cooling speed to detect the issue early. If cooling feels weaker than usual, it is recommended to check the system before the problem grows.
2. Warm Air from Vents
An aircon should blow cold air. If warm air comes out, the aircon can be low on the refrigerant. Due to a low refrigerant level, the aircon cannot remove heat properly, which makes the air feel warm. This happens even when the thermostat is set to a cool temperature. If this issue continues, it will strain the unit and cause bigger damage.
This means the aircon will have to run longer to maintain the desired temperature. This increases the electricity usage. If you notice this problem, hire a professional technician like LS Aircon Servicing Singapore.
3. Ice on the Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils need refrigerant to maintain the desired room temperature. When refrigerant levels drop, the coils get too cold and freeze. Ice forms around them and blocks the airflow. This makes the aircon work harder but still fails to cool the room.
Therefore, check the coils for ice buildup to detect the problem early. If ice keeps forming, the system will shut down completely. If you remove the ice, it does not fix the problem unless the refrigerant level is restored. Regular servicing is the key to prevent this issue from becoming worse.
4. Hissing or Bubbling Sounds
Refrigerant leaks often make strange noises. There might be a leak if you hear a hissing noise when the aircon operates. The sound comes from gas escaping through small holes in the refrigerant lines. A technician can check the system for leaks and seal them before refilling the refrigerant.
These leaks can get bigger over time and cause more loss of cooling power. If you drag this issue too long, the aircon may even stop working completely. Therefore, address this problem early to ensure the system runs smoothly.
5. High Energy Bills
An aircon with low refrigerant has to work harder to cool a room. This increases its energy consumption and results in high electricity bills. If your bill increases without any major changes in usage, the refrigerant level may be low. Thus, fixing this issue early can save money on energy costs.
A well-maintained aircon runs more efficiently and keeps energy consumption low. Regular servicing is essential to detect refrigerant leaks before they cause a spike in electricity bills. If you notice unusual power consumption, it is recommended to hire a technician to inspect the system to avoid bigger costs.
6. Short Cycling
Short cycling happens when an aircon turns on and off too often. Low refrigerant causes the system to overheat and forces it to shut down. This causes frequent restarts and increases wear and tear on the unit. If the aircon cycles too often, check the refrigerant level to find the issue.
Short cycling affects cooling and reduces the lifespan of the aircon. If you leave it unchecked, it will hurt you with costly repairs and replacements down the line. Monitor how often the aircon turns on and off to detect this problem before it worsens.
Conclusion
Low refrigerant levels reduce cooling and increase energy costs. Several signs indicate the issue if you are aware of them. Fixing leaks and refilling refrigerant is essential to prevent further damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance keep the aircon in good condition and extend its life. A well-maintained aircon ensures a comfortable and cool indoor space throughout the year.
