When your home doesn’t feel as cool as it should, even though your air conditioner is running, it could be more than just the Texas heat. One common problem we see around Longview and Tyler is a refrigerant leak. If you’re not familiar with what refrigerant is or why a leak matters, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
As a local HVAC pro at A/C Contractors Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, I’ve helped plenty of homeowners spot the signs of a refrigerant leak early so they can avoid bigger repair bills and stay comfortable all year long.
What Is Refrigerant and Why Does It Matter?
Refrigerant is the chemical your air conditioner uses to absorb heat from your home and release it outside. It flows through your AC system in a closed loop. That means it’s not supposed to run out or evaporate—unless there’s a leak.
Without the right amount of refrigerant, your AC can’t cool your home properly. That puts extra strain on the system, wastes energy, and may eventually cause serious damage.
Signs You May Have a Refrigerant Leak
If your system has a refrigerant leak, it won’t just stop working right away. The signs can be subtle at first, but if you know what to look for, you can catch it early.
1. Weak or Warm Air from the Vents
If the air blowing from your vents isn’t as cold as it used to be, that’s a red flag. Refrigerant helps remove heat from the air, so if there isn’t enough, you’ll feel it.
2. Longer Cooling Cycles
When your AC runs longer than usual but doesn’t cool your home effectively, a refrigerant leak may be the cause. The system is working harder to keep up—and that’s not good for efficiency or your wallet.
3. Ice on the Refrigerant Line
Ice buildup on the copper refrigerant line (the one running from your outdoor unit) is another clear sign. It might seem strange that ice forms during summer, but it happens when refrigerant levels drop too low.
4. Hissing or Bubbling Noises
If you hear hissing or bubbling near your AC unit, that could be refrigerant escaping through a small crack or hole in the line.
5. Higher Energy Bills
If your energy bills suddenly go up, and your cooling doesn’t improve, something’s wrong. A leak forces the system to work overtime, which means higher monthly costs.
What to Do if You Suspect a Refrigerant Leak
Step 1: Turn Off Your AC
If you notice ice on the refrigerant line or hear unusual noises, turn off your system right away. Running the unit while low on refrigerant may damage the compressor, and that’s a costly repair.
Step 2: Call a Professional
A refrigerant leak isn’t something you can fix yourself. It requires special tools and knowledge to safely locate and repair the leak, then recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
At A/C Contractors Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, we’re fully trained and certified to handle refrigerant leaks. We’ll inspect your system, find the source of the problem, and get things running the right way again.
Step 3: Don’t Just “Top It Off”
Some homeowners think they can just add more refrigerant and be done with it. That may work temporarily, but the leak will only get worse. It’s like putting air in a tire with a hole—you need to patch the leak first.
How We Help at A/C Contractors Cooling, Heating & Plumbing
We know the importance of staying cool in the Longview area, especially during the peak of summer. Our team uses advanced leak detection tools to pinpoint refrigerant issues quickly. Once we’ve made the repair, we’ll test the system to make sure it’s sealed tight and fully recharged.
Our goal is to restore your comfort fast—and do it with honesty and care. As a top-rated HVAC company, we treat every home like our own. We’re proud to have built a reputation based on integrity and quality service.
Prevent Future Leaks with Regular Maintenance
The best way to avoid refrigerant leaks is with routine HVAC maintenance. During a maintenance visit, we check for early signs of wear, corrosion, or loose fittings that could lead to leaks. It’s a small investment that helps protect your system and your comfort all year long.
If you think you might have a refrigerant leak, don’t wait. Give us a call here at A/C Contractors Cooling, Heating & Plumbing. We’re always ready to help our neighbors in Longview, Tyler and surrounding areas stay cool, safe, and stress-free.
