4 Signs Your Smithfield, VA, Heat Pump Is Leaking Refrigerant

A heat pump needs refrigerant to help it transfer heat between the outside and inside of a building. This makes it possible for a heat pump to heat or cool an area. Watch out for the following four warning signs that your heat pump in Smithfield, VA, is leaking refrigerant:

Isn’t Heating or Cooling Correctly

Poor performance is one of the most common signs of a refrigerant leak. If the system is running but the indoor temperature isn’t reaching the set point, low refrigerant levels are possibly the problem. When refrigerant is low, it can’t adequately absorb heat to transfer it and maintain the correct temperature.

Ice Keeps Building On the Outdoor Unit

When refrigerant is leaking, it can cause ice to form on your heat pump’s outdoor unit, even when it’s hot outside. That’s because the refrigerant helps absorb heat, so if there’s not enough, the coils can get too cold and freeze. If you see ice on the coils, it’s time to call an HVAC service technician for maintenance.

You Hear Bubbling or Hissing

You might hear hissing or bubbling sounds if the refrigerant is escaping from tiny holes or cracks in the system. HVAC systems make operational sounds, but hissing or bubbling is never normal.

Energy Bills Are Much Higher

A refrigerant leak makes the heat pump work harder. For example, the heat pump might run longer to reach and maintain the correct temperature. This extra effort uses more energy, which shows up on your power bill.

Refrigerant is dangerous and can make you sick if you inhale or ingest it. If you notice any signs of refrigerant leaking, contact Atlantic Shores Heating and Cooling to schedule a heat pump repair.

Image provided by iStock

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