The Importance of Proper AC Refrigerant Charge

When it's hot and humid outside, you rely on your air conditioner to keep you comfortable. To cool your home, air conditioners use a refrigerant to absorb heat from the air and transfer it outside. But did you know that your cooling system needs a proper AC refrigerant charge? In this blog, we'll explore why having the correct amount of refrigerant is crucial, and what can happen if it's too high or too low.

How Much Refrigerant Does Your System Need?
Different air conditioner makes and models require varying amounts of AC refrigerant. Typically, central air conditioning systems use two to four pounds of refrigerant per ton of cooling capacity. For example, a three-ton air conditioner would typically need six to twelve pounds of refrigerant for a proper charge. During installation, technicians measure and test the refrigerant level. Air conditioners have safety systems to prevent overcharging.

Signs of Low Refrigerant
A low refrigerant level is a common problem for air conditioners. When the AC refrigerant level is too low, it won't effectively cool your home's air. You may feel warm air blowing from the vents, notice that the unit cycles constantly, or see frost or ice on the outdoor unit or water near the indoor unit. Other signs of low refrigerant include high electricity bills, short-cycling, low airflow, and a hissing or bubbling sound, indicating an active refrigerant leak.

What Happens If You Run Your AC With Low Refrigerant?
Running your air conditioner with an improper AC refrigerant charge causes extra stress, wear and tear, and a shorter lifespan. Overheating from constant cycling could damage the electronics and motor, and ice buildup may cause the coil to crack. A blown motor or cracked coil usually requires a complete AC system replacement.

Benefits of Proper Refrigerant Charge
With the proper level of refrigerant, your air conditioner cools your home efficiently, blowing cool air from your vents. It also removes excess moisture, maintaining around 40% indoor humidity for your comfort. Properly charged air conditioners last longer, cycle less often, and use less electricity.

How Do You Know If Your AC Is Properly Charged?
The best way to determine if your AC has the right refrigerant level is through an annual tune-up, ideally in springtime. During the tune-up, a technician measures the refrigerant level and checks for signs of a leak. If the level is low, the technician repairs the leak before recharging the system.