Spring has finally sprung, and summer won’t be far behind. If you’re planning to beat the sweltering heat with an air conditioning system, there’s something you should look out for when you get things up and running again: refrigerant leaks. If you’ve heard of refrigerant before, but don’t know too much about it, you may be wondering, “is a refrigerant leak dangerous?” Come check out the answer with Solution Based Plumbing, Heating and A/C; we’re your go-to pros for HVAC woes!
What Is Refrigerant, Anyway?
Before we get into the dangers of refrigerant, let’s explore what it is and why you should care. Refrigerant is a chemical blend that’s an integral part of your A/C system, changing forms from liquid to gas as it works through the system. Without refrigerant, your A/C wouldn’t be able to function, and your icy retreat from summer heat would end in muggy madness. When all is working well, refrigerant is a friend, not a foe. The trouble comes when aged or damaged systems start to leak refrigerant.
What Doesn’t Kill You
Whoever said “whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” clearly never had a refrigerant leak. While typically far from fatal, a refrigerant leak can cause all sorts of unpleasant health problems. Common symptoms of refrigerant poisoning include headaches, coughing, respiratory trouble, and dizziness; it can also cause mild burns in cases of direct skin contact.
Who’s In Harm’s Way?
If your system is leaking, the liquid will pour or drip onto the floor and start to pool. From there, it will change form to a gas that’s heavier than air, circulating just above the floor. This makes it especially dangerous for small children and pets, who spend a great deal of time on the floor. Of course, a refrigerant leak is hazardous to anyone in the house, but pets and children are at greater risk than adults.
How Do I Know If I Have a Refrigerant Leak?
Leaking refrigerant will make your air conditioning system less efficient. If you notice that your house is warmer or more humid than usual, your A/C is blowing lukewarm air, or your A/C is frozen, you may have a refrigerant leak. It’s important to get your A/C problem professionally diagnosed, since a leak can be harmful to your health as well as drive up your energy costs!
Is A Refrigerant Leak Dangerous? Absolutely.
Hopefully you now understand the hazardous nature of a refrigerant leak and the concerning symptoms likely to follow. If you’re worried that your A/C system is leaking refrigerant, you need to contact a professional immediately! Solution Based Heating, Plumbing and A/C is your surefire solution to a refrigerant leak. With countless A/C installations and repairs, we have the in-depth knowledge of air conditioning systems you need to fix your refrigerant leak and protect the health of your family. Go with us today!