Refrigerants are one of the most important parts of any air conditioning system, yet they often go unnoticed—until something goes wrong. These chemical compounds are responsible for absorbing heat from your home and releasing it outside, making cool indoor air possible. Without refrigerants, your AC wouldn’t do much beyond blowing around warm air.
How Refrigerants Work
Refrigerants travel through your AC system in a closed loop. As they cycle between the indoor and outdoor units, they change from a gas to a liquid and back again. This phase-change process is what allows them to move heat out of your home efficiently.
The refrigerant starts inside the evaporator coil, where it absorbs heat from the air inside your home. As it does, it turns into a low-pressure gas. It’s then pumped to the compressor outside, where it gets pressurized and heated up. From there, it flows through the condenser coil, releases its heat outdoors, and turns back into a liquid. This cycle repeats continuously to keep your space cool.
Why Refrigerant Type Matters
Not all refrigerants are the same. Over the years, newer types have replaced older ones that were found to be harmful to the environment. If your AC system is more than 10 years old, it might still use R-22 refrigerant, which has been phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. Today’s systems use more eco-friendly options like R-410A or newer low-global-warming-potential refrigerants.
Choosing the right refrigerant isn’t just about environmental impact—it also affects system performance. Some refrigerants transfer heat more effectively, helping your AC run more efficiently and reliably.
Common Signs of Refrigerant Issues
If there’s a problem with the refrigerant, your AC will likely let you know. Watch out for signs you need AC repair like:
- Warm air blowing from your vents
- Longer cooling cycles
- Ice forming on the coils or refrigerant lines
- Hissing or bubbling sounds near the unit
These symptoms could point to a refrigerant leak, which can damage your system over time and lead to higher energy bills.
Trust Bill Lea Service for AC Expertise in Sherwood
At Bill Lea Service, our cooling services experts help homeowners in Sherwood, AR keep their AC systems running smoothly, including diagnosing and resolving refrigerant issues. If you’ve noticed signs of trouble—or just want to make sure your system is in top shape—get in touch with us today to schedule service. Let’s keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
