How to understand that there is not enough freon in the air conditioner
There are several signs to look out for if you want to know if your home air conditioner is running out of gas. For example, it is worth taking a closer look at the formation of ice on the pipes or the presence of mold and dirt, which may impede the circulation of gas. The first thing to pay attention to is the temperature of the air leaving the unit: this could be the first sign of gas shortage or air conditioner maintenance problems.
How to tell if your air conditioner is low
How can you tell if your air conditioner needs recharging? If, after selecting your desired temperature, the air doesn't feel as cool as it should be, it may be time to recharge your air conditioner with refrigerant. If there is a lack of gas in the air conditioner, you cannot interfere with the operation of the device yourself; you must contact a specialist or contact the installer.
However, refrigerant charging is not always required. Before refilling the air conditioner, it is better to check the filters and their cleanliness, the condition of the condenser and the proper operation of all other parts of the air conditioning system.
How to tell if your air conditioner is out of gas
Some signs may indicate a problem with the refrigerant: in addition to temperature, this could include mold accumulation near the unit, dirt near the pipes, or the presence of ice.
How long does gas last in an air conditioner?
Typically, contrary to popular belief, gas does not require regular refills: it can last up to 10 years before needing to be refilled.
How to understand that there is not enough gas in the air conditioner
If you have problems with the air temperature, you can try measuring the gas level in the air conditioner. For this, pressure gauges are used that measure the gas pressure in the system. Since this is a delicate operation, it is recommended to leave it to a professional who can carry out the inspection correctly and safely.
What to do if the air conditioner loses gas
Another reason your air conditioner may not be cooling properly is a refrigerant leak. Under normal conditions, gas cannot leave the system because it is in a closed circuit. In case of damage, it is necessary to check the pipes and connections, eliminate leaks and, if necessary, replace faulty parts. Then create a vacuum in the system and refill with gas, which is also best left to a specialist. A gas leak can be dangerous because it is difficult to detect: the gas is odorless, colorless, and extremely toxic to the environment.
New gas for air conditioners
R410A gas, which was used in most older air conditioner models, will be replaced by the new R32 refrigerant. By 2025, all air conditioner models will be required to use this new gas, and older models will not be able to support the transition. New air conditioners will be needed, although the pipes and connections may remain the same. R32 was chosen because it is safer and more suitable for residential use, and is also less harmful to the environment as it is an HFC, which is less polluting than CFCs.