Don’t Lose Your Cool if AC Isn’t Working

how to recharge a central air unit

Did you know you can recharge your central air unit?  

 

Now is the time Floridians rely on their air-conditioning systems to conquer the effects of the never-ending heat and humidity. But what happens when the AC suddenly stops producing cold air? Don’t panic — your central air conditioning most likely needs to be recharged.  

 

Air conditioners cannot faultlessly run for their entire lifespan. Generally, your central air conditioner shouldn’t need refrigerant added, but refrigerant leaks happen and might need to be recharged. See how AC units use refrigerant and what to do next if you think your system is low. Here are the top signs that your central air conditioning needs recharging: 

 

 

 

How To Tell If AC Needs To Be Recharged
 

Many things can go wrong with air conditioners, so it is critical to first ensure that refrigerant is the problem with your unit, below is how to tell if your ac needs to be recharged.

 

Common signs your AC needs recharging: 

 

  • The air conditioner is constantly running but it does not cool your home. 
  • The air vents are blowing warm air. 
  • Your energy bills are higher. 
  • There is a buildup of frost on the refrigerant line. 
  • A hissing or bubbling sound is coming from the refrigerant line. 

 

Place your hand in front of the air vent and check the temperature. If it is warm, you might need a recharge. Additionally, checking your thermostat reading is a great way to detect charging problems. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, try to reset it and turn the air conditioner on to check for temperature changes.  

 

Pro Tip: Check your thermostat’s batteries!  

 

 

A broken thermostat does not necessarily mean that you need a recharge. When in doubt, it is best to call a professional from Frank Gay Services. We’ll check your components and look for signs of leaks. Contact our local pros at   (407) 329-9808 .

 

 

Enter The Central Air Refrigerant Recharge

 

For decades, Freon or R-22 refrigerant was used in home air conditioning units (cars too). If your AC system is older, it uses R-22 to keep your home cool.  

 

Freon is not like gas, as it does not get used up or depleted over time. Generally, your air conditioner should never need a Freon recharge unless it has a leak. This is a good reason to have periodic preventive AC maintenance performed on your system.  

 

Since 2010, newer AC units no longer use Freon, but a more eco-friendly refrigerant called Puron (or R410A). You keep your cool and protect the Earth’s ozone. Around here, we call that a win! 

 

Conduct an At-Home Inspection 

 

Some tasks are best left to the AC professionals, but inspecting components of your system could help your technician determine the problem. 

 

Want to give it a try? Follow these DIY inspection tips: 

 

Fan 

 

After checking the thermostat, do a visual inspection of the fan. The fan should begin to move when you turn on your air conditioner. If it does not, it could indicate a problem with the motor.  

 

Never place your hands inside the AC unit. A problem with the fan’s motor should be fixed by a professional.  

 

Filters  

 

Air filters easily get clogged with dirt and debris. Check your filters to ensure that they are clean and unblocked. Sometimes changing out the filter will get your air conditioner running again.  

 

Frost 

 

Leaking coolant can cause an air conditioner to malfunction. Fortunately, leaks are easy to detect as they usually cause frost to build up on tubes, motors, and other components in your system. Coolants are gaseous and could cause harm if handled inappropriately, so be careful.  

 

 

If you notice leaking or frost buildup, contact Frank Gay Services immediately to analyze and fix the problem. We are here for you 24 hours a day! Call today, (407) 329-5145! 

 

 

 

Time To Recharge Your AC Unit?

 If you have completed the above inspections and had minor maintenance performed but your air conditioner is still blowing warm air, it is an indication that your system needs recharging.  

 

Recharging an air conditioner is dangerous and should never be attempted by a novice. Calling in a professional heating, ventilation, and air-conditioner (HVAC) technician is critical.  

 

Our technicians at Frank Gay Services will: 

 

  • Safely recharge your system. 
  • Diagnose other issues if necessary. 
  • Perform other preventive maintenance on your unit. 

 

 

Stay Cool with Frank Gay Services  

 

If warm air is blowing from your vents, check the thermostat batteries and replace them if necessary. If this doesn’t solve the problem, call the pros at Frank Gay Services! We can tune-up, service, repair, and recharge your HVAC system so you stay cool and can get back to enjoying your summer.  

 

We serve the Greater Orlando area. Call us today to schedule an appointment and we will be there right away —   (407) 329-9808 . 

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