Discover the Importance of AC Coolant
When summer arrives here in Orange County, California, it isn’t always a miserable hot summer, but it does get hot enough for the air conditioner. Because of that, getting the home HVAC system inspected and checked out on an annual schedule is important, especially when it comes to having the AC coolant refilled.
What type of coolant do HVAC systems need?
HVAC systems require a coolant that is referred to as a refrigerant. In the past, that refrigerant was R-22 called Freon. After much study and research, the contents of R-22 were discovered to be harmful to the environment, and a new refrigerant was introduced, Puron or R410A. R-22 has slowly been eliminated over the past 10 years or so, and R410A is the only refrigerant readily available.
Freon and Puron are both registered trade names for these refrigerant products. Other brand names for the Puron refrigerant are EcoFluor, Forane, or Suva.
What does this refrigerant do in an HVAC system?
R410A, like R-22, is a low-pressure gas that is superheated. It is injected into an HVAC system by the technician and enters the compressor. The compressor pumps the low-pressured gas towards the condenser, where it is cooled and condensed. The cooled air is distributed throughout the air duct system and out vents in each room.
At this point it becomes a vapor, then becomes a cool liquid with high pressure, creating hot air. That hot air is pushed into the exterior component of an HVAC system and blown out into the atmosphere.
How often should coolant be added to AC?
The process described above will use that gas refrigerant product over time, lowering the amount of the gas-type product inside the system. This requires an AC coolant refill service on an average of every five years, which has to be done by a licensed, professional HVAC technician. If an HVAC system requires an AC coolant refill more frequently, it is usually because of a leak.
Can a homeowner do their AC coolant refill process?
Yes, but it isn’t recommended because the coolant is a gas substance that is under high pressure. Many videos online make an AC coolant refill seem easy, but without the proper tools and the technical knowledge that is needed, it puts the person, and the HVAC system at risk.
How much does an AC coolant refill service cost?
Because Puron, as the other brands, can only be purchased by certified, licensed professionals, it is expensive and is priced by the pound. On average, an AC coolant refill service call can cost as much as $300 or more. Like any business, professional AC service companies will have various rates. Some may charge by the pound of AC coolant refilled in the system plus a labor fee. Others may have a flat rate, which the final cost will come out about the same.
Are Freon and Puron the same?
No, even though Freon, the R-22 version, and Puron, the R410A version go through the same process within an HVAC system, they are different. The R410A product is more environmentally friendly. It is a chlorine-free substance that doesn’t deplete the ozone as the R-22 product does.
With the concerns of the environment around the world, especially in heavily populated areas like Orange County, California, the R-22 is no longer manufactured to help the environment. As such, many homeowners have to replace their existing HVAC system because the R-22 product isn’t as readily available.
Can R410A be used instead of R-22?
No, the two refrigerants have different chemical properties with the R410-A being a higher pressured refrigerant. If a technician (or homeowner) were to use the R410-A for an AC coolant refill job, it puts a risk of the entire HVAC system rupturing. This can harm the person performing the AC coolant refill job as well as the home.
What are some indications an HVAC system needs an AC coolant refill?
The AC coolant doesn’t have a dipstick like a vehicle’s oil or a gauge like the gasoline. But the following are indications that an HVAC system should be inspected by a professional and could need an AC coolant refill:
- The air conditioner constantly runs but isn’t cooling the home.
- Nothing but warm air is coming through the air vents.
- The electric bills have significantly increased.
- There is ice built up on the refrigerant line.
- You hear a bubbling or hissing sound coming from the refrigerant line.
In Closing
If you have noticed any of the five indications we just listed with your HVAC system, check the air filter first. If you haven’t changed or cleaned it every 30 days as recommended could be the cause.
If the filter has been changed or cleaned, call a professional HVAC service company. They will inspect and test the HVAC system and if needed, perform an AC coolant refill service. If you need an ac coolant refill in Orange, CA, you can count on us to help! Give us a call at (714) 464-6622 now!