Air Conditioner Refrigerant (Freon): What Homeowners Should Know

Air conditioner refrigerant (often referred to as Freon) is the substance your AC system uses to remove heat from your home. Without the proper refrigerant level, your air conditioner won’t cool efficiently, and in some cases, may stop working altogether.

Refrigerant circulates through your AC system in a closed loop. It absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors, allowing cool air to circulate through your vents.

If your AC isn’t cooling like it used to, low refrigerant may be the cause. Call Cousin’s Air, Inc. at (954) 228-5965 for a professional inspection.

Types of Air Conditioner Refrigerant

R-22 (Freon®)

• Found in older AC systems
• Phased out in the U.S. due to ozone depletion
• More expensive and harder to source
• Less energy-efficient

R-410A

• Used in modern air conditioners
• Environmentally safer than R-22
• More efficient heat transfer
• Helps compressors run cooler and last longer

If your system uses R-22, upgrading to a newer system may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

How AC Refrigerant Works

Refrigerant has unique physical properties that make air conditioning possible:

• Absorbs heat efficiently
• Changes between liquid and gas states
• Does not corrode internal AC components
• Non-flammable under normal conditions

As refrigerant moves through the system, pressure changes allow it to absorb heat indoors and release it outside. This heat-transfer process is what creates the cool air you feel inside your home.

Signs Your Air Conditioner May Be Low on Refrigerant

Low refrigerant levels typically point to a leak, not normal usage. Common symptoms include:

• Warm or lukewarm air from vents
• Reduced airflow
• Ice buildup on the evaporator coil or copper lines
• Longer cooling cycles
• Higher energy bills

If the refrigerant is low, simply “topping it off” without repairing the leak can lead to ongoing problems and system damage.

Why Refrigerant Levels Get Low

Air conditioners are sealed systems. They do not consume refrigerant during normal operation. If levels drop, it usually means:

• A small refrigerant leak has developed over time
• Aging components or corrosion in older systems
• Improper installation or prior repairs

Addressing the leak is essential to restoring performance and protecting your compressor.

Can You Add Refrigerant Yourself?

No. Refrigerant handling is EPA-regulated and requires licensed professionals. Incorrect charging can:

• Damage your compressor
• Reduce system efficiency
• Void manufacturer warranties
• Pose environmental risks

Professional Refrigerant Services from Cousin’s Air, Inc.

Cousin’s Air, Inc. has provided trusted AC installation, maintenance, and repair services for over 18 years. Our technicians are experienced with both modern refrigerants and older systems.

We also:

• Diagnose leaks
• Recommend long-term solutions
• Help you decide whether repair or replacement makes sense

Cousin's Air, Inc. has been a trusty AC installation, maintenance and repair company for more than 18 years. We are familiar with both R-410A and R-22 Freon types. If you need a Freon recharge, Call Us Today!