There is nothing quite as confusing and frustrating to deal with as problems to do with the refrigerant lines of your air conditioning unit. This is especially true if you’re not an AC expert and want to cool off in your home. As the region’s top professional AC repair service, we dedicate this blog to one of the most notorious AC problems: clogged refrigerant lines. We will discuss what refrigerant lines are, how to tell if they are clogged, and how to prevent this problem.
What Are Refrigerant Lines?
Refrigerant lines are conduits within the AC unit that transport refrigerant fluid between its various components. This fluid mixes with the air absorbed by the AC and is then compressed into a gas and released into the air ducts. After that, it travels through the air filters and vents and provides that cooling air we love during the hot summer months. These lines develop issues, especially in older AC units.
Your Refrigerant Lines May Be Clogged If…
You can’t see a clog inside the refrigerant line, so knowing one is there may not be easy. But knowing these signs of a clogged refrigerant line can help you prevent expensive, extensive repairs.
AC is Producing Warm Air
One of the surefire signs of a clogged refrigerant line is if you notice the AC producing warm air when you expect cold air. The warm air is caused by a problem with the proper circulation of the refrigerant fluid, which is instrumental in cooling the air.
There is a Reduced Cooling Capacity
Another sign of clogged refrigerant lines is a reduction in your air conditioning system’s cooling capacity. This means your home may not be as cool as it should be, even if your air conditioning unit runs at total capacity. Sometimes this is explained by lower levels of refrigerant fluid or a clog, which must be resolved to restore the AC’s proper function.
Hissing or Bubbling Noises
If you hear hissing or bubbling noises, there may be a clog in the refrigerant lines. These sounds are signs of turbulent flow caused by refrigerant fluid hitting restricted areas in the line. Professional AC repair services must be on hand to help resolve this issue before the AC shuts down completely.
Higher Energy Bills
If you notice your energy bills growing each month, a clogged refrigerant line may very well be the culprit behind the issue. A clog hurts the fluid’s ability to circulate properly through the system, making the unit work harder to cool the home. This causes more energy consumption and higher bills. Older AC units also tend to produce higher energy bills, so if this is your issue, a technician must assess the unit.
How To Prevent Clogged Refrigerant Lines
The issues surrounding clogged refrigerant lines are both inconvenient and expensive. Let’s take a look at how to prevent clogged lines in your AC unit.
Regular Maintenance
First things first, it is vital to keep up with regular maintenance of your AC unit. This will help you keep all the components of the AC, including the refrigerant lines, in good order.
Proper Installation
Ensure that a professional AC repair service installs your air conditioning system correctly. This will help to prevent damage to the refrigerant lines during installation.
Keep the Area Around the Unit Clean
Make sure that the area around your outdoor AC unit is always clean and free of debris. Place any plants, toys, outdoor equipment, and bikes at least two feet away to ensure nothing falls into the unit. This can damage the refrigerant lines and cause a clog.
Avoid Overuse
Give your AC a break at least after every 10 hours of operation. This will help you avoid overusing the system, which often leads to clogged refrigerant lines.
Use a High-Quality Air Filter
Higher quality air filters go a long way to ensuring that dust and dirt do not contaminate the refrigerant fluid. Consult your AC tech about the best air filter for your home.
Professional AC Repair Services
Have you noticed signs that your refrigerant lines may be clogged? If so, call One Source today to get in touch with one of our technicians who will provide a prompt and professional resolution to your dilemma. Our techs are masters in all things AC related and will restore your system back to order in no time!
