You turn on your air conditioner on a hot day, only to find that it’s not blowing out cold air like it’s supposed to. After a few minutes of troubleshooting, you realize that the problem is because of an air conditioner condenser coil leak. But why is this happening?
This blog post will look at the three most common reasons for a leaking condenser coil and what you can do to fix the problem.
Why Does Condenser Coil Leak?
Your air conditioner’s condenser coil helps to cool and compress Freon gas so that it can be circulated through your home and provide cool air. The condenser coil comprises a series of metal fins surrounding a copper or aluminum tube. The fins help increase the coil’s surface area, which in turn helps the Freon gas to cool more quickly.
The most common reason for a leaking condenser coil is corrosion. Corrosion can occur when the metal fins of the coil become damaged and allow moisture and oxygen to enter the coil and cause it to rust from the inside out. In some cases, corrosion can also be caused by inadequate maintenance or by using an incorrect cleaning solution on the coils.
Another common reason for a leaking condenser coil is Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs are chemicals released into the air when certain materials are used or handled. When these chemicals come into contact with the metal fins of the condenser coil, they can cause the metal to corrode and eventually leak.
Moreover, one reason is that the coil may be dirty. If the coil is dirty, it will not be able to transfer heat as effectively and may cause the coil to leak.
Check If Your AC Condenser Coil is Leaking
If you think that your air conditioner’s condenser coil may be leaking, there are a few things you can do to check.
- Visually inspect the coils – Look for any cracks or leaks. If you see any damage, your coil is likely leaking.
- Check for debris – Debris can build up the coils and cause them to leak. Remove any residue that you see so that you can get a better look at the coils.
- Feel the coils for frost – Frost on the coils is another sign that your coil is leaking. If the frost is thick, it’s a good indication of a significant leak.
- Listen for strange noises coming from the unit – If you hear hissing or bubbling noises, it could indicate a leak in the condenser coil.
- Check your energy bills – An increase in your energy bills can be another sign of a leaky condenser coil since the leak will cause your AC unit to work harder than usual to cool your home.
What to Do?
If you have a leaking condenser coil, the best thing to do is to contact a professional AC repair company. They can properly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. In some cases, the entire coil will need replacement.
A leaking condenser coil is not a minor problem and needs immediate fixing. If left unchecked, a leaking coil can cause your air conditioner to break down completely. Not to mention, it can also be a fire hazard. So, if you think you have a leaking condenser coil, don’t hesitate to contact a professional AC repair company right away.
How to Avoid Air Conditioner Condenser Coil Leak?
The best way to avoid condenser coil leaks is to regularly maintain your AC unit. It will help ensure that the coils are clean and free of debris or corrosion.
In addition, be sure to use the correct cleaning solution when cleaning the coils. Using harsh chemicals can cause the coils to corrode over time. Avoid using VOCs near your air conditioner unit as well. If you must use them, be sure to ventilate the area well so that the VOCs don’t come into contact with the coils.
AC condenser coil leaks can be a severe problem, but you can avoid this with proper care and maintenance. If you think your air conditioner’s condenser coil may be leaking, don’t hesitate to contact a professional AC repair company for help.
Conclusion
Condenser coils are an essential part of your air conditioner and can help to transfer heat from the inside of your home to the outside. If your air conditioner’s condenser coil leaks, it can cause various problems. The most common reasons for a leaking condenser coil are dirty coils, VOCs, and corrosion. If you think your air conditioner’s condenser coil is leaking, contact a professional AC repair company for help.
