AC Refrigerant Leak Detection and Repair in Kissimmee

Signs your AC may have a refrigerant leak

• The system runs but the air from the vents isn't very cold
• Ice on the copper lines at the outdoor unit or on the indoor coil
• A hissing or bubbling sound near the indoor or outdoor unit
• The AC runs much longer than it used to, or can't keep up on hot afternoons
• Higher power bills without a change in how you use it
• An oily residue on refrigerant fittings or the coil
• You were told the system needed refrigerant before, and it's low again

Where AC leaks usually happen

• The indoor evaporator coil, where corrosion over time can cause tiny pinhole leaks
• The outdoor condenser coil
• Service valves and access ports
• Brazed joints and fittings
• Flare connections on mini-split systems
• Line sets that rub against something, were damaged, or run through walls and attics

Many leaks are very small, so they take patience and the right methods to find.

How we find the leak

We start by checking how the system is operating, then use leak detection methods that fit the situation. That can include an electronic leak detector, bubble solution on fittings and valves, and isolating parts of the system and pressure-testing them with nitrogen. Once we know where the leak is, we explain it, show you the options and give you the price before any repair.

Repair, replace the part, or replace the system?

Some leaks, like a loose access valve core or a leaking fitting, are a straightforward repair. Others, like a corroded evaporator coil, may mean replacing the coil. On an older system, the cost of a major leak repair plus refrigerant can approach the value of the system, and replacement may be the better investment. We'll lay out the options honestly and let you decide.

Older R-22 systems

If your system was installed before about 2010, it may use R-22 refrigerant. Production and import of R-22 in the United States ended on January 1, 2020, so the remaining supply is limited and recharging is expensive. If an R-22 system has a significant leak, it's often time to look at replacement. Newer systems use refrigerants like R-410A, and the newest equipment is moving to lower-impact refrigerants such as R-454B and R-32.

Why a leak shouldn't wait

Running a system that's low on refrigerant makes the compressor work harder and can freeze the indoor coil, which then melts and can overflow the drain pan. Over time, it can lead to a much more expensive compressor failure. If you see ice, turn the system off and let it thaw, and call us.

What to expect on a leak call

We'll ask what you've noticed and when it started, check the system's temperatures and pressures, and look for the visible signs of a leak, like oil at fittings or frost in the wrong places. Some leaks are found in minutes. Others take more time and testing. Either way, we'll tell you what we found, what it will cost to repair, and whether a repair is a good investment for the age of your system.

Good questions to ask about any refrigerant repair

• Where exactly is the leak, and how was it found?
• Is the leaking part repairable, or does it need to be replaced?
• What refrigerant does my system use, and how available is it?
• How old is the system, and does this repair make sense at that age?
• What's the total price, including refrigerant, before the work starts?

You should get clear answers to each of these. We'll give them to you in plain language.

The Central Florida factor

Central Florida systems run long hours under heavy load, and that stress shows up quickly when refrigerant is low. A small leak that's barely noticeable in March can leave you without cooling in July. It's worth finding and fixing early.

Refrigerant Leak Repair near you

We provide refrigerant leak repair in Kissimmee, Buenaventura Lakes, St. Cloud, Celebration, Hunters Creek, Poinciana, Orlando, Lake Nona, Meadow Woods, Southchase, Lake Buena Vista, Narcoossee, Four Corners, Harmony, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Winter Garden, Avalon Park, ChampionsGate, Reunion, Kissimmee Bay, Bellalago.

Common questions

Does my AC need refrigerant every year?

No. Refrigerant circulates in a sealed system. If it needs refrigerant, there's a leak, and the leak should be found and repaired.

Can you just add refrigerant?

Adding refrigerant without finding the leak is only a temporary fix, and you'll likely be paying for more again. We recommend finding the leak first so you can make an informed decision.

How do you find a refrigerant leak?

We check system operation and use detection methods that fit the situation, including electronic leak detectors, bubble solution and nitrogen pressure testing of isolated parts of the system.

My system uses R-22. Should I repair it?

Because R-22 is no longer produced or imported in the U.S., recharging is costly. For a small, easy repair it may make sense. For a major leak, replacement is often the better investment. We'll give you honest numbers either way.

Why is there ice on my AC lines?

Low refrigerant is one common cause. A dirty filter or coil, or a blower problem, can also freeze the coil. Turn the system off, let it thaw and call us.

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