Why a Refrigerant Leak From a Heat Pump Is Bad

Heat pumps are an excellent option for maintaining your home’s comfort through any season. However, a heat pump refrigerant leak requires immediate HVAC repair in Louisville, KY. What makes this mechanical malfunction so concerning?

At A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, we deal with faulty heat pumps regularly and know how to repair refrigerant leaks. Find out why you never want to find refrigerant leaking from your heat pump in this guide. We’re here to break down the biggest issues that can stem from a refrigerant leak. 

Six Reasons Why You Can’t Ignore a Refrigerant Leak

Heat pumps eliminate the need for a separate heater and air conditioner by offering heating and cooling solutions in one. The system relies on chemical refrigerant which traps heat and releases it. This works like a standard air conditioner in the summer by taking heat from inside your home and replacing it with cool air from an air or ground source.

During the colder months, your heat pump uses refrigerant to transfer natural heat found outside into your home. Given the prominent role of refrigerant, an unexpected leak can take a toll on your heat pump. Discover all of the ways that a heat pump refrigerant leak spells trouble for your household. 

1. The Refrigerant Is Dangerous for Your Health 

It’s important to remember that HVAC refrigerant contains harmful chemicals and substances. It might not seem dangerous or apparent when you have a leak because refrigerant has no odor. However, letting the substance continuously leak can have consequences. 

You might experience the following health issues with steady exposure:

• Headaches
• Skin rashes or irritation
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Nausea or vomiting

All of these symptoms indicate refrigerant poisoning. If you notice any unexplained changes in your health and find your heat pump isn’t as reliable, a refrigerant leak could be to blame. 

You should never try to repair a leaking heat pump on your own. Trained technicians have certain leak repair requirements and protocols they must follow for the utmost safety. Let a licensed HVAC repair contractor address your faulty heat pump and keep your household safe. 

2. The Heat Pump Might Make Strange Noises

Low refrigerant levels can have a significant effect on a heat pump’s performance. One of the telltale signs that you’re dealing with a heat pump refrigerant leak is when you hear bubbling hissing sounds coming from the unit. Pay attention to any noises you hear while the system runs and don’t hesitate to call a repair technician if you hear anything out of the ordinary. 

A simple refrigerant recharge may be the answer to your problems and offer a quick solution. In some cases, however, the leak could come with other mechanical malfunctions, such as the compressor overheating. You might have to consider replacing the heat pump depending on the extent of the damage. 

3. You’ll Have Higher Energy Costs

Your heat pump needs a certain amount of refrigerant to successfully transfer heat into and out of your home. If it suddenly begins leaking, the loss of refrigerant forces your system to work harder at heating and cooling your home. This promotes system inefficiency and can cause your energy bills to spike. 

Since heat pumps are known for being an eco-friendly and energy-efficient HVAC product, it may come as a surprise to see your monthly utility costs skyrocket. Take this as a sign to have an expert rule out a heat pump refrigerant leak or other form of damage. 

4. The Heat Pump Might Sustain Evaporator Coil Damage

The evaporator coil stores the refrigerant and pushes it through the rest of the system. If it springs a leak, ice may soon freeze over the coil. This ultimately affects the entire function of the heat pump and leaves you struggling to regulate your home’s temperature. 

A frozen evaporator coil could also cause the entire heat pump to freeze. If you face a refrigerant leak during the winter time, it can leave you with no heating whatsoever. 

5. It’s Harder To Stay Comfortable

One of the biggest issues for homeowners with a heat pump refrigerant leak is inconsistent heating and cooling. Not only will the excess strain on your system reflect in higher energy costs but it will be noticeable inside your home. The heat pump might take a while before the house can reach the desired temperature on your thermostat. 

It could frequently short cycle and turn on and off after only a few minutes. All of these issues lead to uncomfortable indoor environments. Don’t delay scheduling a repair service to address the refrigerant leak and restore your home’s comfort level. 

6. There Could Be Widespread Damage Throughout the System

What starts out as a small heat pump refrigerant leak can quickly escalate into a major problem. The compressor is one of the system’s most important parts because it facilitates the movement of the refrigerant throughout a heating and cooling cycle. It may overheat due to a lack of refrigerant and affect how the whole system operates. 

Replacing a faulty compressor can turn into a costly repair service. If you’re looking to save money and keep your heat pump working long-term, it’s essential that you keep an eye out for signs of a refrigerant leak and schedule repairs immediately. Prioritize annual heat pump maintenance as well to ensure it operates at maximum efficiency and prevent issues like refrigerant leaks. 

Discover Professional HVAC Solutions With A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling

Whether you’re dealing with the fallout of a heat pump refrigerant leak, faulty compressor, or another problem with your HVAC system, our team is ready to help. At A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, we’ll develop a professional HVAC plan to keep your system functional and energy efficient. Louisville homeowners count on us to deliver top-notch service when it comes to heat pump installation, repairs, and maintenance.  

Do you need professional HVAC service in Louisville? Give us a call at (502) 708-2247 to request a consultation and learn more.