Top Causes Of Air Conditioning Gas Leaks Logicool Air

Why Is My Air Conditioning Unit Leaking Gas?

There are multiple different reasons which cause an air conditioner to leak gas. Below are some of the main reasons why aircon gas leakages occur. 

Improper Air Con Installation

Air conditioners must be installed correctly and safely by licensed air con technicians. If your air con was installed by a dodgy company at a cheap price, then this can be a leading cause of future gas leaks. When gathering quotes for your next install, always check the company’s licensing and the website for reviews.

Corrosion Damaging the Evaporator Coil

Corrosion is what will most of the time cause the air conditioner to have a gas leakage. Specifically, pitting corrosion is what happens when the coils are exposed to fluorides in water supplies and chloride in detergents. The coils become damaged by the two and will cause the refrigerant to leak.

A formicary corrosion can also happen, formic or acetic acids are exposed to the coils for long periods of time. These will also damage the coils and will result in the refrigerant to leak and create gas. 

Air Conditioning Beach & Coastal Corrosion

If your property is located in a coastal area, there is an increased likelihood of salt corrosion causing damage to an air conditioning coil. Logicool Air has solutions that we can apply to new units as a form of coating protection. This will prevent any future corrosion from salt.

A Schader Valve Being Damaged

When this valve’s seal becomes damaged then it can result in refrigerant leaking. The malfunctioning Schader valve is another common issue which will lead to the issue of an air con gas leak.

Mechanical Issues with Refrigerant Lines 

The refrigerant lines are what air conditioners have to travel the refrigerant around the system. The solution which is responsible for cool air goes from the outdoor condenser coils to the indoor evaporator coils. Copper made refrigerant lines can become damaged and allow the refrigerant to leak, such as through cracks. When the refrigerant also leaks within the system then other parts of the aircon unit will experience mechanical damages. 

Controls Poorly Soldered and Faulty Fittings or Joints

An air con gas leak can happen when solder is poorly melted causing cold joints. Likewise, when an overheated or disturbed joint is incorrectly fixed or installed then this can easily lead to refrigerant leakages. 

Control Valves and Leaky Connections

The links around the control valves might be leaking due to it not being properly connected or cleaned. When this happens then the chance of gas leaking from the air conditioner increases. 

Poor Air Con Servicing & Maintenance

If your air con has been serviced incorrectly or has limited maintenance checks. Then this increases the chances of gas leaks. Domestic air cons should be serviced at least once a year and commercial air cons should be serviced once every 6 months. However this all depends on the type of unit.  

Why Are Air Conditioning Gas Leaks Dangerous?

When the air conditioner leaks gas it must be handled by a qualified technician as soon as possible. This is because there are extreme dangers when this type of gas leaks. 

It is important to know that aircon gas leaks are not common and are often easily identifiable. Contacting a licensed technician can help resolve these issues and prevent any systems or issues from developing. 

Hazardous to Human Health

Aircon gas leaks are hazardous to human health in many ways. Headaches and nausea are some common symptoms when the gas is inhaled. Additionally, the skin can be irritated and the heart rate can increase in the short term. 

When the gas is exposed to individuals over long periods of time then other negative medical complications can arise. These can include shortness of breath, unconsciousness and other issues which are from long exposure of aircon gas. 

Damaging the Actual Aircon Unit

Another negative of aircon gas leaks is that it causes many negative effects on the system. When the unit is running while the gas is leaking then it is under more pressure to operate. This can lead to the system using more electricity up to around 20% more. 

With this added pressure the compressor will begin to experience other issues and be damaged. If the compressors break then expensive repairs are needed which are more than resolving the aircon leak itself. 

How to Detect Aircon Gas Leaks

There are many ways to see if the air conditioner is leaking any gas. Here are some simple steps and methods to take:

• Smells – check to see if there are any gas smells present near the aircon unit, it is easy to detect. The smell which can be strong will easily provide an answer if the unit is experiencing gas leakages. 
• Refrigerant and Cooling Pipes – inspect these systems and parts for any stains. When there are stains present then this is a clear indication that the aircon is leaking gas. 
• Humming Noises – near the thermostat pipe humming noises can happen from gas leaks. Check for humming when the room or area is a quite as it can be to make it easier. The humming coming from the thermostatic expansion valve is a clear sign of gas leaks. 
• Bubble Test, Nitrogen & Bubble Testing – using this test involves putting nitrogen in the system. This will test will put pressure on all joints and welds.

An air conditioning service is also encouraged regularly to prevent air con gas leak issues. To know more on why you should service your air conditioner read our blog with detailed advice. 

Professional Aircon Gas Leakage Repairs

Logicool Air is here for all of Sydney when it comes to an air con gas leak. We can operate on any system, brand or type and ensure the gas leakage stops quickly. This includes both split systems and ducted air conditioning dealing with gas leaks. 

Our fully certified technicians can work across all of Sydney, including the Inner West, North Shore and Sutherland Shire.  We also offer Air Conditioning Installation services to all of Sydney as well, great for when old systems need replacing. 

Regardless of the aircon gas leak, our technicians are here to assist – email us now at info@logicoolair.com.au!