When reading about air conditioning units, you may find that the word “refrigerant” comes up quite a bit. But what is refrigerant, and what purpose does it serve? In Wellington, FL, air conditioning plays a vital role in maintaining household comfort levels amid the sultry temperatures of summer. Refrigerants play a huge role in that. Understanding how is key to understanding why your air conditioning works the way it does.
Refrigerant is an essential part of the cooling cycle of your AC. As the refrigerant moves through the system between your indoor and outdoor unit, it absorbs the heat from warm air in your house and then releases it into the outdoors. As the refrigerant changes from a liquid to a gas, it’s temperature changes, and that is how your air conditioning system is able to cool the air in your home.
Refrigerants operate within a closed system in the air conditioning system, which prevents them from leaking out into the nearby environment. Theoretically, that means the refrigerant will last indefinitely. Unfortunately, air conditioners undergo wear and tear like any other mechanical system and refrigerant levels may run low over time. Leaks may develop in the system, releasing increasing amounts of coolant and necessitating repairs.
Despite their usefulness, refrigerants pose a health and environmental hazard if not properly handled. Air conditioning technicians receive formal training and certification in the handling of refrigerants, and know how to recharge your system properly when refrigerant levels run low.
For that reason, it’s important to call in a service technician for refrigerant issues rather than attempting to address the problem yourself. The trained professionals at Envirotech Air Quality Services can recharge your refrigerant, deal with leaks and maintain a regular maintenance program to keep your air conditioner in peak efficiency. We handle air conditioning in Wellington, FL and throughout the Palm Beach area. If you have any questions or concerns about refrigerant in your air conditioning unit, give us a call and schedule a service appointment today.