Understanding a Commonly Overlooked HVAC Problem
You rely on your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable, especially during those hot, humid Rochester summers. But what happens when your AC suddenly stops cooling efficiently, starts blowing warm air, or runs constantly without ever reaching the desired temperature? While there could be several causes, one of the most common culprits is low or leaking refrigerant—also known as coolant or Freon.
For many homeowners, refrigerant is a bit of a mystery. You’ve probably heard the term “Freon,” but you may not know what it does or why it’s so important. This blog post will break it down in simple terms, offering Freon and refrigerant information that every homeowner should know. You’ll learn what refrigerant is, why it matters, and how to recognize issues before they turn into expensive repairs or replacements.
What Is Refrigerant (and Why It Matters)?
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in air conditioning systems and heat pumps to absorb and release heat, allowing your system to cool (or in the case of heat pumps, heat) your home. It flows through a closed loop, transitioning from gas to liquid and back again to move heat from inside your home to the outside.
Without refrigerant, your AC simply wouldn’t work. It’s the lifeblood of your HVAC system’s cooling process.
Many homeowners still use the term “Freon” as a catch-all for refrigerant, but Freon is actually a brand name for a specific type of refrigerant—R-22—which has largely been phased out. Today’s systems use more environmentally friendly alternatives, but they all serve the same purpose: efficient heat transfer.
A Quick History of Freon and Modern Alternatives
For decades, R-22 Freon was the standard in residential air conditioning. However, scientists discovered it contributed significantly to ozone depletion. As a result, it was officially phased out in the United States beginning in 2010 and completely banned from production and import by 2020.
Homeowners with systems that still use R-22 should be aware that:
- R-22 is no longer being manufactured.
- Supplies are limited and expensive.
- Servicing these systems can cost significantly more.
Newer systems use environmentally safer refrigerants like R-410A and R-32. These options offer better energy efficiency and are compliant with current EPA regulations. In the near future, refrigerants such as R-454B are expected to become more widely used as manufacturers push for even more climate-friendly solutions.
Signs Your System Might Have a Refrigerant Issue
A refrigerant problem won’t always trigger an obvious alarm, but there are several signs homeowners can look out for:
- Your AC runs constantly but doesn’t cool your home.
- Warm air blows from the vents despite setting the thermostat to cool.
- Ice forms on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines.
- You hear hissing or bubbling sounds (a potential refrigerant leak).
- Your energy bills suddenly spike without increased usage.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to schedule a professional HVAC inspection. Low refrigerant levels usually indicate a leak, which must be addressed right away to avoid system damage.
Can You Check or Add Freon Yourself? (Spoiler: No)
It’s tempting for a DIY-savvy homeowner to look for ways to fix an AC issue on their own, but refrigerant isn’t something you can handle without proper training and certification. The EPA requires all technicians who work with refrigerants to be certified under Section 608.
Here’s why handling refrigerant yourself is a bad idea:
- It’s illegal to purchase and use refrigerant without certification.
- Refrigerants can cause serious health issues if not handled properly.
- Adding refrigerant without fixing a leak only masks the problem temporarily.
- Overcharging or undercharging refrigerant levels can damage your compressor.
The best thing you can do is call a licensed HVAC technician who has the tools and training to safely diagnose and repair the issue.
How a Technician Diagnoses and Fixes Refrigerant Issues
When a professional inspects your HVAC system for a refrigerant problem, they’ll follow a thorough diagnostic process:
- System pressure check – To determine if refrigerant levels are within the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Leak detection – Using specialized tools to locate any leaks in the refrigerant line.
- Repairs – Sealing or replacing the damaged components to stop further refrigerant loss.
- Recharge – Adding the correct type and amount of refrigerant back into the system.
In some cases, especially with older units that use R-22, homeowners may face a tough decision: repair a costly leak and pay for expensive refrigerant, or replace the system with a newer, more efficient model.
How to Know If Your System Uses Outdated Refrigerant
Not sure what type of refrigerant your AC uses? Here are a few quick ways to find out:
- Check the age of your system – Units installed before 2010 likely use R-22.
- Look at the label – Your outdoor condenser or indoor air handler may have a sticker that lists the refrigerant type.
- Ask your HVAC technician – A service visit can confirm what type of refrigerant your system uses and whether it’s time to consider an upgrade.
If you do have an older system that runs on R-22, it’s a good idea to start planning for a replacement. While it may still work, servicing it will only get more difficult—and costly—over time.
FAQs About Freon and Refrigerants
Is Freon illegal now?
Freon (R-22) isn’t illegal to possess or use, but it’s no longer manufactured or imported. You can still use systems that rely on it, but repairs involving refrigerant will be expensive and limited.
How much does it cost to refill refrigerant?
The cost depends on the type and amount of refrigerant your system uses, but it can range from $150 to $600 or more. R-22 recharges are especially expensive due to limited supply.
What happens if I don’t fix a refrigerant leak?
Running your AC with low refrigerant can cause the compressor to overheat and fail, leading to a much more costly repair—or even full system replacement.
Will upgrading to a new system reduce my energy bills?
Yes. Newer systems use more efficient refrigerants and technology, reducing energy consumption and improving cooling performance.
Final Thoughts: What Homeowners Should Take Away
Understanding how refrigerant works—and what can go wrong—is essential for protecting your HVAC investment. Key takeaways include:
- Refrigerant is what allows your AC to cool your home effectively.
- Freon (R-22) is outdated, expensive, and being phased out.
- Signs of refrigerant issues include poor cooling, ice buildup, and high energy bills.
- Don’t attempt to add refrigerant yourself—call a licensed HVAC pro.
- Knowing what type of refrigerant your system uses helps you plan for future repairs or upgrades.
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling like it should, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Contact Trident HVAC for expert refrigerant diagnostics, leak detection, and efficient system upgrades. We’ll help you stay cool, safe, and informed—because knowing your Freon and refrigerant information can make all the difference in your home’s comfort.