Tell-Tale Signs Of An Overcharged Air Conditioner
Having too much of anything can be just as harmful as having too little. This is especially true regarding overcharged cooling systems, where excessive refrigerant processing can lead to damage over time. To prevent problems and extend the lifespan of your equipment, it is important to stick to the recommended parameters. Keep reading to discover the signs of an overcharged AC and the potential dangers associated with this issue.
Tell-Tale Signs of An Overcharged Air Conditioner
A cooling system relies heavily on refrigerant, which acts as its life force. This substance effectively carries the heat out of a home and gradually reduces the indoor temperature through each cycle. While adding more refrigerant to speed up the cooling process may be tempting, doing so can be counterproductive and cause problems if the amount exceeds the AC’s capacity.
Handling refrigerant is dangerous and should only be entrusted to a certified and experienced HVAC technician. Unfortunately, some amateur technicians may attempt to charge the refrigerant in an air conditioning system, leading to mistakes. As a homeowner, it is essential to be aware of the signs of an overcharged air conditioner. These include:
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Soaring Energy Bills
Contents
- 0.1 Soaring Energy Bills
- 0.2 Elevated Heat Discharge
- 0.3 Frozen Air Conditioning Coils
- 0.4 Noisy Air Conditioner Compressor
- 0.5 Sudden Cooling System Shutdown
- 0.6 Uneven Air Conditioner Pressure Levels
- 1 How an Air Conditioner Gets Excessive Refrigerant
- 2 Call Miller Oil Company For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
As you use an air conditioner over time, you become accustomed to its energy consumption and associated expenses. While there may be occasional fluctuations, they are typically minor. If you notice a sudden and significant increase in your energy bill, it could indicate a problem with your AC. If you recently had maintenance work performed on your cooling system, consider the possibility that your unit was overcharged.
Elevated Heat Discharge
Regular maintenance is a necessary aspect of owning an HVAC system. This includes keeping the area surrounding the outdoor unit free from overgrown foliage to ensure proper airflow. This maintenance routine can also serve as an opportunity to inspect the equipment. While it is normal for the system to produce hot air, if the air feels exceptionally hot compared to the usual, it could indicate that the system is overworked. Several factors, such as dirty air filters, clogged blowers, and excessive refrigerant, could contribute to this problem.
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Frozen Air Conditioning Coils
Air conditioners can sometimes become too cold, leading to frozen coils. This requires the attention of a professional to determine the best course of action. It can be difficult for untrained individuals to diagnose the issue as too little and too much refrigerant can cause ice to form. Consulting a professional technician is the most effective way to identify the underlying cause of the problem accurately.
Noisy Air Conditioner Compressor
The compressor typically produces some noise, which most owners become accustomed to and recognize as normal when turning on or off while operating. However, if it begins emitting unusual sounds, such as loud squeals, this indicates a problem. Such noises could be caused by issues stemming from the excess of high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the system.
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Sudden Cooling System Shutdown
When designing equipment, engineers consider potential hazards to the cooling system. They incorporate safety switches that can initiate an abrupt system shutdown to prevent damage. One such hazard is an excess of refrigerant, which can negatively impact the air conditioner and trigger this type of response. If the safety switch has been activated, have an HVAC technician examine the unit and determine the cause before attempting to power it back on.
Uneven Air Conditioner Pressure Levels
If there is excess refrigerant in the air conditioning unit, it can cause pressure imbalances. Although it is a reliable indicator of a problem, typical homeowners may not have the necessary skills to measure it. If you suspect this issue is affecting your equipment, call a technician to inspect it. This is a reliable way to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
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How an Air Conditioner Gets Excessive Refrigerant
Explaining inadequate refrigerant is simple: your air conditioning system had enough refrigerant before, but coolant leaks caused it to drain away slowly. To return to normal, fix the leaks and recharge the system. On the other hand, an excessive amount of refrigerant may have resulted from any of the following causes:
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Improper Air Conditioner Installation
Starting at the very beginning, it is important to rely on certified HVAC professionals with the necessary expertise when installing a new HVAC system. Their work will significantly impact the performance, efficiency, and longevity of the equipment. If excessive refrigerant is added during installation, it can lead to various issues with the cooling system.
Amateur Air Conditioning Repairs
Some homeowners may turn to untrained individuals for repairs to save some money. However, the quality of the results may vary greatly, as amateurs lack certified technicians’ expertise. They may improperly complete repairs for refrigerant leaks, such as overcharging the system. The handling and disposal of refrigerants are regulated by law and should only be done by licensed professionals.
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Consequences of Having an Overcharged Air Conditioning Unit
- Poor Cooling Equipment Performance & Efficiency – In the event of an overcharged cooling system, the system’s performance may fall short of your expectations. Its capacity to cool indoor areas could be compromised, which can be particularly aggravating in the summertime. Also, the system may struggle to fully convert refrigerant between gas and liquid states, leading to a significant drop in efficiency that can only be remedied through correction.
- Faulty Air Conditioner Valves & Connecting Rods – When in its liquid state, a portion of the surplus refrigerant may seep into the compressor’s cylinders. This can cause harm to the valves and connecting rods. These components are not equipped to handle such circumstances. To prevent further complications, have the issue examined by qualified HVAC technicians without delay.
- Air Conditioner Compressor Motor Burnout – If some liquid refrigerants leak into the crankcase and combine with the oil, the resulting mixture can cause the crankcase pressure to rise significantly. The compressor motor will be unable to endure the increased stress for an extended period, and eventually, it will fail and become nonfunctional. At that point, you will have no alternative but to replace the entire cooling system.
What a Homeowner Should Do
If your air conditioner is experiencing an overcharge of refrigerant, it can be hazardous. If you suspect that this is the issue, switch it off immediately and seek assistance from a knowledgeable HVAC technician. A certified technician will be skilled in determining the correct refrigerant level and correcting the issue. They will also apply appropriate measures to fix any damaged components for a prompt return to normal functioning.
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Conclusion
It is crucial not to cut corners when it comes to air conditioner installations and repairs. Although amateurs may offer lower prices, their unrefined work may create issues in the future. They may also overcharge systems, requiring hiring professionals to rectify the situation. To prevent complications and enjoy hassle-free ownership, consult certified technicians right from the start.
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Call Miller Oil Company For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
Miller Oil Company provides exceptional heating and cooling services throughout Hartford County, Connecticut. Our team comprises top-tier certified technicians who specialize in delivering outstanding HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our technicians possesses the necessary knowledge and expertise to service your HVAC system correctly.
We are committed to providing the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the region. Our maintenance services enhance your comfort and increase energy efficiency while reducing your home’s heating and cooling expenses. If you require HVAC repair or replacement, we can recommend the best options for your home while keeping within your budget. Our work is guaranteed to ensure your satisfaction.
To schedule a service appointment, contact Miller Oil Company today. We also offer free, in-home estimates. Click the link to view our service area.