Signs of Low Refrigerant Levels in Your Home’s Heat Pump

Refrigerant is vital to any heat pump system. Like most homeowners in Loudon, TN, you might want to learn what symptoms indicate low levels in your heat pump. Common signs of low refrigerant levels include:

Leak in the Heat Pump

Although a heat pump uses refrigerant to cool, it doesn’t evaporate during normal use; the system converts it from a liquid to a gas and back again. However, your heating system may lose refrigerant due to leaks. Connector points are the origin of the leaks, but with regular maintenance, you may be able to prevent them.

Ice on Evaporator Coils

Additional issues may arise if your heat pump leaks, like ice developing on the evaporator coil. Since the refrigerant has to absorb heat, its absence will reduce the evaporator coil’s capacity. This, in turn, causes the moisture on the evaporator coil to freeze.

Poor Performance

Low refrigerant puts additional strain on several heat pump components. The strain will be significantly greater on the compressor. A significant increase in electrical expenses might result from these low levels.

Hissing Sounds and Gurgling Noises

Pressure is how your heat pump moves the refrigerant from one system area to another. So, if you hear hissing sounds, it’s a good indicator that your have a leak.

Gurgling sounds are a common telltale sign of a low charge. They arise due to trapped air bubbles within the line.

Short Cycling

HVAC systems use a closed loop to heat and cool on a cycle. When the loop is incomplete, your system will work in shorter bursts due to insufficient pressure to heat or cool the air.

A refrigerant leak can lead to multiple issues with a heat pump. If you suspect that your heat pump is leaking refrigerant or a different problem is interfering with your home’s heating and cooling, contact Cook’s Comfort Systems, Inc. One of our skilled technicians will assist you in resolving any troubles you may be experiencing.

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