When your air conditioner stops keeping your home cool, it can be hard to know exactly what’s wrong. Sometimes the issue is simple—like your AC needs refrigerant. Other times, it could be a sign of a much bigger problem. At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we want to help you understand the difference so you know when to call us and what to expect.
We’ve proudly served Waterford, MI and Oakland County since 1929. With our NATE-certified technicians and long-standing reputation for quality and honesty, you can count on us for dependable service and clear answers.
Understanding the Role of Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the substance your air conditioner uses to move heat out of your home. It flows through coils inside the system, absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outside. Without the right amount of refrigerant, your AC simply can’t do its job.
Signs Your AC Needs Refrigerant
There are a few key signs that your AC might be running low on refrigerant. Here’s what to look for:
1. Warm Air from Vents
If your air conditioner is blowing air, but it’s not cold, that’s one of the most common signs of low refrigerant. Even when the fan is working, a refrigerant shortage means the system can’t remove heat.
2. Ice Buildup on the Refrigerant Line
It might sound odd, but ice forming on your AC’s copper lines is a strong sign your AC needs refrigerant. Low levels can cause the coils to get too cold, leading to ice and even system shutdowns if not fixed quickly.
3. Hissing or Bubbling Sounds
Refrigerant leaks often produce hissing or bubbling noises. These sounds come from holes or cracks in the refrigerant lines, where gas is escaping under pressure.
4. High Energy Bills
A low refrigerant level forces your AC to work harder and longer to keep your home cool. That means more energy used—and a higher electric bill at the end of the month.
5. Longer Cooling Cycles
If it feels like your system is always running but still not cooling effectively, that could point to low refrigerant. Your system struggles to hit the temperature you’ve set because it doesn’t have what it needs to cool properly.
When It’s More Than Just Low Refrigerant
While low refrigerant is a fairly common issue, it’s not always the only one. Sometimes, what seems like a refrigerant issue may actually be a bigger repair.
Potential Major AC Problems
1. Compressor Failure
If your compressor is damaged, the refrigerant can’t circulate through the system at all. That’s a serious issue and often results in the need for a full system replacement.
2. Electrical Problems
Faulty wiring, blown capacitors, or bad thermostats can cause your AC to malfunction. These issues can mimic the signs of low refrigerant but require entirely different repairs.
3. Dirty Coils or Filters
Clogged air filters or dirty evaporator coils reduce airflow and heat transfer. This might make it seem like your AC needs refrigerant, when in reality, a thorough cleaning could fix the issue.
What to Do If You Suspect a Problem
The best way to know for sure what your AC needs is to schedule a professional inspection. At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we use the latest tools and training to accurately diagnose AC problems, including checking refrigerant levels and pressure. If your AC needs refrigerant, we’ll find and fix the leak before refilling—because simply adding refrigerant without sealing the leak is just a temporary fix.
Don’t Delay a Repair
Running an AC system that’s low on refrigerant can lead to bigger problems down the road, like a frozen evaporator coil or a burned-out compressor. The sooner we catch the issue, the more affordable the repair.
Why Choose Kotz for AC Repairs?
We’ve been a trusted name in Oakland County since 1929. Our team at Kotz is locally owned and operated, and we’re proud to offer:
- NATE-certified technicians
- Honest assessments and upfront pricing
- Top-of-the-line HVAC products
- Personalized customer service you can trust
We stand behind our work and the products we install, so you can relax knowing your comfort is in good hands.
Final Thoughts
Not every cooling issue is a major repair—but it’s always best to get it checked out by a pro. If you think your AC needs refrigerant or suspect a bigger issue, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today. We’ll help you get your cool back—fast, fair, and with the high-quality service we’re known for in Waterford, MI and all of Oakland County.
Need fast AC help? Give Kotz a call or schedule service online. Let’s get your home cool and comfortable again.
