Does My Heat Pump in Fairfax, VA, Have a Refrigerant Leak?

Low refrigerant levels can cause your heat pump to work inefficiently, resulting in higher electricity bills and poor performance over time. Always watch for any signs or symptoms that your heat pump might have a leak. Here are some common signs of a heat pump being low on refrigerant in Fairfax, VA:

Frozen Condenser Coils

When the refrigerant levels are insufficient, it disrupts the heat exchange process and causes the condenser coils to freeze. This freezing can further damage the system, affecting its overall performance. Moreover, persistent freezing could lead to a complete system breakdown, rendering your heat pump inoperable.

Water Pooling Around the Heat Pump

The freezing and subsequent thawing of the condenser coils results in excessive water around the heat pump. The water can weaken the base of it. It’s also a potential safety hazard as it could lead to electrical short circuits.

Inefficient Heating and Cooling

The refrigerant plays a crucial role in transferring heat, and when its levels fall, the heat pump’s efficiency significantly reduces. Consequently, your living or working space may not reach the desired temperatures, leading to discomfort. The heat pump may also run continuously to reach the set temperature, leading to higher energy consumption and costs.

Failure to Turn On

A heat pump that fails to turn on can indicate low refrigerant. This is often due to fail-safe shutdown mechanisms designed to protect the pump’s compressor from damage caused by low refrigerant levels. Running the heat pump without enough refrigerant could lead to overheating and potential damage to the compressor.

Ensure your heat pump has optimal refrigerant levels at all times to avoid potential problems. Contact E.M. Logan Inc. for maintenance services to keep your heat pump in Fairfax, VA, running smoothly and efficiently. Our service technicians will check for signs of refrigerant leaks, replace the refrigerant if needed and perform any other necessary maintenance tasks.

Image provided by iStock