If your AC system is performing poorly, it may be low on refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels can cause a myriad of problems, including lack of cooling power, frozen coils and even higher electricity bills.
While a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) professional can fix these and other related problems by charging your AC system, you shouldn’t choose just anyone for this job.
If the HVAC professional overcharges your AC system, he or she may inadvertently cause additional damage to it.
What Is Overcharging?
Overcharging involves filling an AC system with more refrigerant than that for which it’s rated.
All AC systems are designed to hold a specific amount of refrigerant as indicated by the manufacturer. When an AC system is overcharged, an excessive amount of refrigerant is pumped into it.
Poor Cooling
Like low refrigerant levels, high refrigerant levels can reduce your AC system’s cooling power.
The refrigerant inside your AC system is pressurized. If your AC system is overcharged, the pressure will increase.
If the pressure of the refrigerant is high enough, it may fail to effectively remove heat from your home’s air. Air may still come of the vents, but it will be warmer than usual.
Higher Electricity Bills
You can expect higher electricity bills if your AC system is overcharged.
When your AC system doesn’t produce cool air, it will run for a longer period. It may, in fact, continue to run 24 hours a day unless you turn it off at the thermostat.
Of course, your AC system will still consume electricity, thereby contributing to higher electricity bills.
Your AC system needs to function properly by cooling your home’s air. Otherwise, it will increase your home’s cooling costs.
Compressor Damage
The biggest danger associated with overcharging is the potential for compressor damage.
AC systems contain many different components, one of the most important being the compressor. Located in the outside unit – the condenser coil – it removes heat from the refrigerant. Refrigerant picks up heat inside your home, after which the compressor releases its heat.
With too much refrigerant running through it, your AC system’s compressor may sustain damage. The excess pressure can physically damage the compressor.
Alternatively, some of the excess refrigerant may accumulate within the compressor, resulting in flooding-related damage.
If your AC system is low on refrigerant, you should contact a credible and reputable HVAC company for assistance. They can fill it with an appropriate amount of refrigerant while eliminating the risks associated with overcharging.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
