Refrigerant Leaks In Commercial Hvac Systems: Causes, Detection & Fixes

By Author: Stacey McCoy
Total Articles: 1
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Is your HVAC system struggling to maintain the temperature? Are you receiving high energy bills in spite of the same load? Are you experiencing unexpected breakdown? If yes, you might probably wonder what went wrong with your HVAC system. Well, refrigerant leak might be the culprit. This often-overlooked issue can seriously impact your system’s efficiency, increase operational costs, and even lead to equipment failure if not addressed in time.

Understanding what causes refrigerant leaks, how to detect them, and the best ways to fix them can save your business from costly repairs and downtime. Let’s dive into the key details.

What Causes Refrigerant Leaks in Commercial HVAC Systems?

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of any HVAC system, responsible for heat transfer and temperature regulation. When a leak occurs, the system struggles to cool or heat effectively. Here are some common causes:

• Corrosion in the Refrigerant Lines

Over time, exposure to moisture, chemicals, and pollutants can cause the refrigerant lines to corrode. Formic acid and formaldehyde, often present in indoor air, can create ...
... pinhole leaks in copper coils, allowing refrigerant to escape.

• Poor HVAC Installation

Faulty or rushed commercial HVAC installation can lead to lose fittings, improper sealing, or weak soldered joints, all of which increase the risk of refrigerant leaks.

• Wear and Tear on Components

Like any mechanical system, HVAC units experience natural wear and tear. Valves, seals, and joints can degrade over time, creating small leaks that worsen if left unaddressed.

• Vibrations and Physical Damage

HVAC systems generate vibrations during operation, which can loosen connections over time. Additionally, accidental damage during maintenance or renovations can lead to refrigerant leaks.

How to Detect a Refrigerant Leak in Your Commercial HVAC System
Spotting a refrigerant leak early can prevent costly repairs and energy waste. Here are some telltale signs:

• Reduced Cooling or Heating Efficiency: If your system is struggling to maintain set temperatures, a refrigerant leak could be to blame.

• Higher Energy Bills: A drop in refrigerant levels forces the system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption.

• Hissing or Bubbling Noises: If you hear unusual sounds near the refrigerant lines, it could indicate a leak.

• Ice Buildup on Coils: Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, reducing system performance.

• Humidity Issues: If your HVAC system isn’t effectively removing moisture from the air, a refrigerant leak might be affecting its functionality.

How to Fix Refrigerant Leaks in Commercial HVAC Systems

Once a leak is detected, swift action is necessary to prevent further damage. Here’s how to address the issue:

• Professional Leak Detection & Repair: HVAC technicians use electronic detectors, UV dye, and pressure tests to pinpoint leaks and seal them effectively.

• Component Replacement: If the leak stems from corroded coils, faulty valves, or worn-out seals, replacing these components can restore system integrity.

• Regular Maintenance & Inspections: Scheduling routine commercial HVAC service repair helps catch small leaks before they become major problems.

• Upgrading Old Equipment: If your HVAC system is outdated and prone to frequent leaks, replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model may be the best long-term solution.

Final Thoughts

A refrigerant leak might start small, but its impact on efficiency, energy costs, and equipment lifespan can be huge. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and professional inspections can keep your commercial HVAC system running smoothly. If you suspect a leak, don’t wait—contact commercial mechanical contractors to diagnose and fix the issue before it escalates.

H&H Commercial Services, Inc. has been servicing the tri-state area of Philadelphia since 2000.  Our experience covers sales, installation and service over a wide variety of equipment including the following:  Indoor pool dehumidification, chillers, rooftop heating and cooling, split systems, cooling tower, water source heat pumps and boilers to name a few.  H&H is factory authorized support for Dunham-Bush Chillers and Desert Aire Pool dehumidification.  We are also factory trained on Dectron and Poolpak Indoor Pool dehumidification equipment. To know more, visit https://hhcommercialonline.com/ or call 610 532 8745.