When performing a visual inspection of your AC system, you may come across a set of valves. Known as service valves, they are connected to the refrigerant lines.
They are typically found around the condenser unit. To learn more about service valves and how they work, keep reading.
What Are Service Valves?
Service valves are refrigerant line fittings that allow heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) technicians to perform servicing.
Your AC system has refrigerant lines – typically pure copper pipes – that carry refrigerant from one piece of equipment to another piece of equipment.
HVAC technicians can perform various types of tests and services by using the service valves. They allow HVAC technicians to perform refrigerant services without interfering with operation.
How Service Valves Work
By connecting a pressure-reading device to a service valve HVAC technicians can test the pressure of your AC system.
HVAC technicians can also use service valves to charge your AC system. Charging is the process of adding refrigerant to an AC system. With low refrigerant levels, your AC system may fail to cool your home.
Charging will restore your AC system’s refrigerant so that it will again be able to cool your home and is typically done by connecting a device to a service valve.
In addition to adding refrigerant, HVAC technicians can use service valves to release refrigerant.
Too much refrigerant can cause problems. Known as overcharging, this can damage the compressor, harm cooling performance, and expose your AC system to wear and tear.
Leave the Service Valves to the Professionals
As a homeowner, you shouldn’t attempt to access or use the service valves. Service valves are designed for HVAC technicians.
Failure to use a service valve correctly could result in refrigerant leaking into your home and the atmosphere. And in some cases, you may end up damaging your AC system by accessing a service valve.
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.
