Frequently Asked Questions About AC Service and Cooling Repairs

PURON is a trademark name that represents refrigerant (R410A) and is environmentally friendly. It contains no chlorine atoms, which makes it less harmful to the environment. It is currently being introduced into the industry and is considered to be a long term alternative to current refrigerants in use today. New equipment is currently available which contains this environmentally friendly refrigerant.

It is never acceptable for refrigerant to leak from your air conditioning unit or heat pump. Refrigerant cycles in a closed loop system and is never supposed to evaporate, dissipate or get used up. Adding refrigerant to your unit indicates that you have a leak which can damage your system if not resolved in a timely manner. Also, most refrigerant has chemical properties that are harmful to the environment if released into the atmosphere.

Trim plants and bushes around the unit to provide at least twelve (12) inches of clearance for air flow. Keep pets away from the outdoor unit, as the acid in pet urine is a corrosive that will deteriorate the metal. Have the unit services annually to maintain cleanliness and ensure proper air flow. 

Water is removed from the air during the cooling cycle. If the tube carrying that water (condensate line) away from the unit becomes clogged, the water will overflow into the drain pain and run down through the furnace or air handler. This leaking water is extremely harmful to the electrical components of your system and must be corrected immediately.

You may see “frost” or “ice” on the outdoor unit because the coil of the heat pump is colder that the air surrounding it and when that air is below freezing, frost or icing will occur, but should melt with in 1 ½ hours as this is the timing sequence most defrost controls use to check for this condition in our area.

It is a function of the cooling or heat pump system to remove moisture from the air in the summertime. This is necessary in order for the air to feel comfortable. The moisture that is removed from the air is then carried away from the indoor unit or coil and is normally discharged outside onto the ground or into a floor drain inside of the home.

Good airflow is critical to the efficient operation of any air conditioning system. A clean, high efficient air filter will also protect the system from the harmful effect of dirt buildup on the vital components of the air handler or furnace. A high quality air filtration system also provides for cleaner air in your home and ensures a higher level of comfort for you and your family.