Is your air conditioning system leaking refrigerant?

    mitsubishi mini split with a refrigerant leak

    The climate in Torrance, CA, is generally warm and humid, meaning your HVAC system works hard year-round to keep your house or office comfortable. A refrigerant leak makes those systems work even harder and use more electricity. For energy-efficient heating and cooling, many homeowners and business owners rely on ductless mini-split systems. However, like any home air conditioning equipment, mini-splits can develop issues over time—one of the most common being refrigerant leaks. If your ductless system isn’t cooling or heating as efficiently as before, or your ac contractor is constantly adding freon to your HVAC system, your system is leaking refrigerant.

    Here are some common reasons why mini-splits leak refrigerant:

     

    Improper Installation – A poor installation job, including loose connections or improper brazing, can lead to refrigerant escaping from the system.

    Wear and Tear – Over time, vibrations from regular use can weaken joints and connections, causing small leaks to develop.

    Corrosion – Exposure to moisture and chemicals in the air can cause corrosion on refrigerant lines, leading to pinhole leaks.

    Physical Damage – Outdoor units are vulnerable to impact from debris, landscaping activities, or even pests, which can damage refrigerant lines.

    Factory Defects – In rare cases, manufacturing flaws in evaporator coils or tubing can result in freon leaks.

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    How ductless HVAC systems work

    A refrigerant leak is one of the most common problems that can affect a ductless HVAC system. When refrigerant levels drop, your system has to work harder to keep up, which can lead to poor performance, higher energy bills, and even damage to important parts like the compressor. Leaks can happen for a variety of reasons, including improper installation, corroded refrigerant lines, physical damage, or just normal wear and tear over time. If left unchecked, a leak can put extra strain on your system and shorten its lifespan.

    At Temp Air System in La Puente, we specialize in finding and fixing refrigerant leaks to get your mini-split running efficiently again. If you’ve noticed weak cooling, ice forming on the indoor unit, or a hissing sound coming from your system, it might be time for a professional inspection. Contact us today to keep your ductless system working at its best!

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