A leaking HVAC system at home is an indication of damage manifesting on the air conditioning unit. Although it doesn’t seem too dangerous, the liquid leaking from the HVAC system can become dangerous. In most instances, the liquid leaking is only water. However, there are instances where it’s the refrigerant or the cooling agent leaking.
Refrigerants can cut oxygen supply in a room where it leaks. In some cases, people who accidentally inhale high amounts of it can get high. Other instances, especially during times people inhale high concentrations of it, can lead to death. Therefore, it is important to learn about the common signs of leaks in HVAC systems to prevent refrigerant leaks. But what causes leaks? Here are some ideas.
What Causes HVAC System Leaks?
There are several scenarios that can cause leaks in HVAC systems. One of the most common is where there is a crack in the pipes in the HVAC system. But there are other more causes, and here are some of them.
1. Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are common in air conditioning systems because these systems tend to become filled with water, and this can cause the drains to become blocked. In some cases, the liquid can overflow and leak into the room.
In most cases, this is only water, but in some cases, it’s a combination of water and air conditioning refrigerant. Although the refrigerant is liquid, but when exposed to heat, it turns into gas and this gas can leak into the room.
2. Faulty Valves
Valves, in most cases, are used to regulate the flow of water into the HVAC. However, when these valves become faulty, they can become a channel for water to seep through. Faulty valves can cause the pressure to become uneven and this can lead to the system having leaks.
The best way to solve leaking valves is to have them replaced. However, since it can happen anytime, it’s best to keep a 24-hour AC repair company’s number at reach to prevent the issue from worsening. In no time, your valves at home should work as they should and perform their tasks without leaking.
3. Cracked Ducts
Ducts are the main channels that allow air to flow through seamlessly to the room. However, just like with valves, ducts can crack. Cracks can lead to the ducts leaking, and that can have negative consequences on the air conditioning system.
As a result, cracked ducts can cause air air conditioning equipment to break down prematurely as they can get filled with water and/or air conditioner refrigerant. If there are cracks, you should have them replaced or have them repaired.
4. Leaky Fittings or Clamps
In most instances, air conditioning systems use various fittings and clamps to hold together different parts of the HVAC system. These include wires, valves and other parts of the HVAC system.
However, in some cases, these fittings and clamps can malfunction or break, thus causing the system to have leaks. If you are experiencing such leaks, have the fittings and clamps replaced.
5. Rusty Tank or Container
Similar to the fittings and clamps, the tank used in the air conditioning system is usually a container that is used to hold refrigerants. These containers have to be able to withstand high temperatures and to hold high amounts of chemicals. In many instances, the tank is made of metal which rusts when exposed to the elements.
But even where the tank is made of plastic, it cannot withstand the effects of weather. Therefore, you should check your tank regularly to prevent rusting. However, in most cases, these containers can rust or rusted. If you see leak or rust on the metal tanks, you should replace the tank.
How Can Homeowners Avoid Leaking HVAC Units?
One of the best ways to prevent leaking HVAC units is to keep the system in good shape. However, with time and usage, the system may develop leaks. But it still pays to take care of the system and perform needed maintenance tasks as often as possible.
1. Schedule Routine Checks
Leaks in HVAC systems can happen when there are faulty parts that are not performing their tasks as they should. Therefore, checking the HVAC system on a regular basis can help you detect and thus prevent leaks. However, you should keep a professional HVAC service provider to check the system for you.
2. Have Broken Parts Replaced
If there are broken parts in the system, the chances of leaks is high. Therefore, even if you notice a drip, you have to have all faulty parts replaced immediately. When it comes to replacing faulty parts, it is advisable that you have a professional HVAC technician to do it. Otherwise, you can end up making the problem worse.
3. Use Caulk to Prevent Leaks
If you have a crack in your system, it can cause your pipes to leak water on the room. If you want to prevent leaks, you should fill the cracks with caulk. It is a cheap and easy way to eliminate leaky pipes in the HVAC system because it’s a simple task that can be done quickly.
4. Clean Up Ducts
Although they are required to channel air in the room, but ducts can get clogged with dirt and grime. Therefore, having the ducts cleaned regularly can prevent the system from getting clogged and that can prevent leaks. Most of the time, clogged ducts can cause air conditioning systems to break down prematurely.
5. Avoid Using the HVAC System Once Broken
In some cases, the leaking from the HVAC system is so bad that you have to turn it off. However, you should never use the system when it’s broken. Not only is it dangerous, but it can also lead to more problems that you do not want to deal with. Therefore, the best thing to do is to contact a professional HVAC technician if you are experiencing leaking.
Conclusion
Leaks in HVAC systems can cause major problems. From shortening the lifespan of the system to letting out hazardous air conditioner refrigerant, leaks are major concerns. Therefore, you should observe signs of leaks to nip the problem in the bud. As explained above, there are several ways to prevent leaking HVAC equipment.
HVAC Swami is the HVAC guru in all states across the country. We also provide our services in Canada and the U.K., bridging more than 100 years of experience to provide assistance to homes in need of our help. We offer services from air conditioning tune-up to wall AC unit installation. Reach out to a 24-hour AC repair company near you today, and let us take care of everything for you.
