A Common Misconception in AC Maintenance
At Four Winds Custom Heating and Air Conditioning, we often encounter homeowners who believe their air conditioning systems need a yearly refrigerant top-up. This myth has persisted for years, leading to unnecessary service calls and expenses. Today, we’re here to set the record straight about AC refrigerant.
The Myth: Annual Refrigerant Refills
Many people think that air conditioners use up refrigerant like a car uses gas, requiring regular replenishment. This misconception has led to the belief that annual refrigerant top-ups are a necessary part of AC maintenance.
The Truth: Refrigerant Doesn’t Get “Used Up”
In reality, your AC system is designed to use the same refrigerant over and over again in a closed loop. Under normal circumstances, your air conditioner should never need a refrigerant refill. The refrigerant continuously circulates through the system, changing from liquid to gas and back again, but it doesn’t get consumed in the process.
When Does an AC Need Refrigerant?
The only time your AC might need additional refrigerant is if there’s a leak in the system. Signs of a refrigerant leak include:
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- Ice forming on the evaporator coil
- Hissing sounds coming from the AC unit
- Higher than usual energy bills
The Importance of Professional AC Maintenance
While annual refrigerant top-ups are unnecessary, regular AC maintenance is crucial. A professional technician can:
- Check for potential refrigerant leaks
- Clean or replace air filters
- Inspect and clean coils
- Ensure proper system operation
At Four Winds Custom Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re committed to providing honest, reliable AC service to our customers in South Bend, Osceola, Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Granger, IN. Don’t fall for the refrigerant top-up myth – trust our experts for all your AC repair and maintenance needs.