Heat pumps are reliable HVAC solutions for indoor climate control. Unfortunately, like any other mechanical systems, heat pumps can experience problems that affect their performance, such as refrigerant leaks. Here’s how can you tell your heat pump in Sebastian, FL, has a refrigerant leak:
Longer Run Times
As refrigerant leaks, it reduces the amount available to transfer heat effectively. This forces the compressor to work overtime to maintain the set temperature. If you notice run times increasing gradually, it could signal a refrigerant shortage in your heat pump from a leak.
Higher Energy Bills
Since your heat pump will run longer due to a refrigerant leak, it’ll increase your cooling bills as a result. Repairing the heat pump as soon as possible won’t only minimize repair or replacement costs. It’ll also minimize how much you overpay to cool your house.
Imbalanced Temperature
A properly charged system should be able to heat or cool consistently within a few degrees of the thermostat setting. Low refrigerant is hampering even temperature distribution if one area of the home is much warmer or cooler than others.
Strange Sounds
Service technicians can identify failing parts by their auditory clues. Listen for new whistling, clicking or humming noises coming from outside that coincide with the operation. Low suction pressure from a leak alters compressor operation acoustically.
Frost or Freeze-ups
Insufficient refrigerant levels impact efficiency so much that coils can freeze up. Frost developing unusually fast on outdoor lines or ice building up inside indicates dramatic undercharging from an unaddressed leak.
If any warning signs ring true, don’t wait to schedule heat pump repairs. Refrigerant leaks only worsen over time, decreasing performance and risking costly compressor failure down the road. The experts at Barker Air Conditioning and Heating can perform a heat pump inspection to quickly diagnose issues and make necessary repairs to restore like-new efficiency.
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