Refrigerant leaks can seriously hinder the performance of your heat pump and can pose a threat to your health and safety. Homeowners with heat pumps need to know when it is possibly leaking from their systems. Here are some of the telltale signs that your heat pump has a refrigerant leak in Opelika, AL.
Decreased Performance
Heat pumps transfer heat from one area to another by successively evaporating, compressing and condensing refrigerant. Since refrigerant carries the heat that the system moves around, you’d expect noticeable drops in performance to follow from these leaks.
Remember, however, that this indicator is not a surefire one. Many things may cause your heat pump’s performance to falter, and we always recommend calling for an HVAC technician and requesting either repairs or maintenance after you notice this happening.
The Smell of Ether
Refrigerant has a sweet odor that resembles that of ether and chlorine. If you suddenly notice such an unusual smell, you can be confident that your heat pump has lost some of its refrigerant.
Refrigerant is extremely dangerous, and inhaling it, even in small quantities, has the potential to harm you. Hence, if you detect this smell, leave your home immediately and request HVAC repair services.
Bubbling, Gurgling or Hissing Noises
This is the signature sound that a heat pump emits when it leaks refrigerant. The reason for this sound is that after it exits your system, it leaves room for air to come in and displace it. Once air does enter your heat pump through holes in the lines, it forms bubbles.
If you notice any of the above signs, especially the latter two, take action immediately. Our team of licensed technicians are available to assist. If you live near Opelika, AL, call Sensigreen Heating, Cooling & Insulation and schedule HVAC repair services today.
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