Are you noticing an unexpected rise in your energy bills? Or is there a mysterious puddle forming near your HVAC unit? These could be signs of a leaking pipe or water leak within your HVAC system. Ignoring these issues can spell trouble for your home and your budget. Don’t worry! We here at Courtesy have put together this guide to help you detect and fix any HVAC leaks!
Detecting Leaks:
HVAC leaks are inconvenient and expensive, but they can also become a serious safety issue. For example, leaks close to the furnace can contribute to the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why it’s essential to make sure that your HVAC system is functioning to the best of its ability and to find a quality plumber in Albuquerque who can help make that happen. If you’re wondering, “How do I find a leak in my HVAC system?” here are some tips!
- Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting your HVAC system. Look for any signs of moisture, water stains, or pooling water around the unit, which could indicate a leak.
- Listen for Unusual Sounds: Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from your HVAC system, such as dripping or hissing noises, which could signal a leaky pipe.
- Check Your Utility Bills: A sudden increase in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage could indicate an HVAC leak, causing your system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
- Professional Inspection: It’s always best to call in the experts when in doubt. Courtesy HVAC offers comprehensive inspections to promptly identify and address any potential leaks in your system.
Signs of Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks are a common culprit of a failing air conditioner, preventing it from cooling properly (and in Albuquerque, we know you need your air conditioner to be up to the task!).
Here are some telltale signs that might indicate potential Freon leaks:
- Lagging cooling performance
- Extended or sluggish cooling cycles
- Icy evaporator coils
- Raised utility bills
- Sweetish smell (similar to nail polish remover)
Signs of Leaky Ducts
Leaky ducts have their telltale signs as well. Look out for
- Rooms that are unusually warm or cold
- High utility bills
- Areas of dust around vents
- Loud whistling or ‘whooshing’ sounds when the AC is running
- Musty odors
HVAC Problem Areas to Look Out For:
Your duct system has certain parts more prone to developing leaks than others. If you suspect a leak, here are some areas to keep a close eye on.
- The elbows, transitions, and bends of a duct bear the brunt of airflow, which can dislodge joints that are poorly sealed.
- Inspect the seams that connect duct sections, as the joining tape can decay or weaken over time.
- The metal fittings of plenums (the boxes connected to HVAC equipment that bring in and distribute air) can start to separate over time.
Fixing Leaks With Our New Mexico HVAC Professionals:
- Perform Leak Detection: Our technicians can quickly and simply detect refrigerant leaks via electronic leak detectors or by circulating ultraviolet dye.
- Seal Leaky Ducts: Leaky ducts commonly cause HVAC inefficiency and can lead to significant energy loss. Our team can inspect your ductwork and seal any leaks to improve the performance of your system.
- Repair or Replace Faulty Components: Whether it’s a leaking pipe, a malfunctioning valve, or a damaged seal, our experienced technicians can repair or replace the necessary components to stop the leak and restore your HVAC system’s efficiency.
- Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to preventing leaks and prolonging the lifespan of your HVAC system. Our technicians can put together customized maintenance plans to fit your needs and budget!
Contact Us Today!
Don’t let HVAC leaks disrupt your comfort and inflate your energy bills. Trust the experts at Courtesy HVAC to promptly detect and fix any leaks in your system. Our team of skilled technicians is here to help with all your HVAC needs, including plumbing services in Albuquerque. Contact Courtesy HVAC to keep your home comfortable and efficient all year round!