4 Dangers of Running an AC Low on Refrigerant

Summers in Plainview, TX, can be pretty intense, and having a working air conditioner is a must to beat the heat. But what happens when your AC is running low on refrigerant? This blog post will discuss the dangers of running an AC low on refrigerant and what you should do to avoid it.

1. Reduced Cooling Efficiency

When your AC is low on refrigerant, it essentially will work double time to cool your home. The side effects are using more energy and not cooling everything as effectively. You may notice your AC blowing warm air or taking longer than necessary to keep everyone comfortable. Does that scenario sound familiar? If so, schedule an AC repair or maintenance appointment right away.

2. Frozen Coils

Without enough refrigerant, your AC’s evaporator coils can freeze over. This is because the refrigerant’s primary role is absorbing heat within the indoor air and sending it outdoors. Without enough of it, the coils can get too cold and freeze. A frozen coil can cause your AC to stop working altogether and can even cause damage to your compressor.

3. Compressor Damage

Compressor damage is yet another consequence of low refrigerant levels. The function of a compressor is to circulate refrigerant throughout your AC system. If there’s a minimal supply, your compressor could fail, resulting in a costly replacement.

4. Health Hazards

Refrigerant can also be a health hazard if it leaks into your home. It’s a harmful chemical that can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and eye irritation if inhaled in large amounts. Again, if you notice any problems relating to low refrigerant with your air conditioner, schedule service as soon as possible.

AC problems keep creeping up? Worry no more because help is on the way! Reach out to Integra Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, and a member of our team will be there to assist you. We are well-versed in every cooling problem imaginable, including refrigerant issues. Best of all, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re working with a dedicated HVAC company that will always put your needs first.

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