A Refrigerant Charge is a Part of A/C Maintenance That You Can't Ignore

The air conditioner and refrigerator in your Corpus Christi home both require correct refrigerant charge for proper operation. Refrigerant charge refers to how much refrigerant gas is within a system. Refrigerant charging is the process of refilling these gases after they have become partially or completely depleted.

Does My System Need a Refrigerant Charge?

There are several symptoms of low air conditioner refrigerant levels. The most noticeable one is when the unit’s vents blow warm or hot air. Another serious situation occurs when an outdoor unit becomes completely frozen over. This freezing can leave a cooling system completely inoperable. Other less serious symptoms of low refrigerant levels include reduced system efficiency, lower condenser fan temperatures, oily residue on piping, and iced-up coils. Additionally, an air conditioner without proper refrigerant levels will consume more electricity, resulting in higher energy bills, and be unable to keep your home properly dehumidified and feeling comfortable.

The Refrigerant Charging Process

 If you suspect low refrigerant charge, contact your local HVAC contractor for an inspection of your system and a recharge if necessary. Qualified technicians will charge the system based on how it is operating.  They will check the pressures and temperatures to make sure the system is operating at its peak efficiency.  The temperature and pressures of the refrigerant will be tested and the cooling capacity will be tested to make sure it is working as good as it can.

If you suspect your air conditioner needs a refrigerant charge, contact your local experts at CCAC, Inc. At Constantly Concerned About Customers, our experienced technicians provide quality service to all Corpus Christi and surrounding Coastal Bend Texas-area homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about refrigerant charge and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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