When we get questions at Rocket City Air here in Huntsville, AL, one of the most common is, “what is freon?” It’s a great question, especially since Freon plays such a huge role in how your AC keeps your home cool and comfortable. From Blossomwood to homes across Madison County, understanding Freon can help you take better care of your system.
What Is Freon and Why Does It Matter?
To put it simply, Freon is a type of refrigerant. It flows through your air conditioner’s coils and absorbs heat from inside your home. Then, it releases that heat outdoors, leaving the air inside much cooler. Without it, your AC would just blow warm air around. That’s why, when a system runs low on refrigerant, you’ll notice a major drop in cooling power.
How Freon Works in Your AC System
When you’re thinking about refrigerant, it helps to know how it moves inside your air conditioner. First, the compressor pushes Freon through the system. As it flows, it changes between a gas and a liquid. This change is what allows your AC to pull heat out of the air and send cool air back into your home.
Different Types of Freon
Over the years, there have been several types of Freon used in homes around the country. The most common older type was R-22, but it’s being phased out because of environmental concerns. Today, most newer systems use R-410A, which is safer for the ozone layer and more efficient.
Signs You Might Have a Freon Problem
Since we’re talking about what it is, it’s also important to know the signs of a Freon issue. Here are a few:
Your AC blows warm air.
Ice builds up on the refrigerant lines.
You hear a hissing or bubbling noise.
Your energy bills suddenly spike.
If you notice any of these, it’s smart to call Rocket City Air. Our team has fixed countless refrigerant leaks across Huntsville, from Hampton Cove to Five Points.
Is it Dangerous?
Freon is usually safe when it’s sealed inside the system. However, if there’s a leak, it can pose a risk. It’s always best to have a professional check it out. We’re trained to handle refrigerant safely and can make sure your system is running like it should.
What To Do If Your System Needs More Freon
If your AC isn’t cooling well and you think it’s low on refrigerant, don’t just top it off. Low refrigerant usually means there’s a leak. Adding more without fixing the leak will just lead to more problems. At Rocket City Air, we find and fix leaks before recharging the system, making sure you stay comfortable without wasting money.
Trust Rocket City Air for Your Cooling Needs
Now that you know a little more about what freon is, you can see just how important it is to your air conditioner. If you’re in Huntsville, Madison, or New Hope and you think your system has a refrigerant issue, don’t wait. Contact Rocket City Air today—we’re always happy to help keep your home cool and comfortable!
