Freon is a gas and chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that soak heat and cools air. It has been utilizing as an useful refrigerant in many air conditioners. Problems with
AC Freon occur when there is a leak in the system. There may be times when a Freon leak can be diagnosed and fixed fairly easily. Often, however, a leak requires some professional attention. There are significant hazards to both your health and your pocketbook when a leak goes undetected and unrepaired. At Duggan’s One Hour, we want you to have the facts about the effects of a Freon leak in your AC unit.
Health Risks
External contact with Freon can cause skin to become dry, cracked, and irritated. Brief inhalation of vapors can cause:
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination
- Increased heart rate
Longer periods of inhalation may result in:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Unconsciousness
- Death
Freon has heat absorption qualities that can cause frostbite upon ingestion or contact with the eyelids. The good news is that AC Freon is rarely leaked in quantities that could be fatal.
Environmental Hazards
Like other CFCs, Freon can penetrate soils and seep into groundwater. This can affect plants and animals, as well as contaminate well water.
Financial Effects
When a Freon leak goes undetected for a long period of time, the pumps run at increased power in order to distribute the Freon faster. Not only does this draw more electricity, it is inefficient, and can stress the system until it is compromised. Eventually, the unit may just break down. The result of a leak can be higher energy costs along with improper cooling. Plus, if the damage is extensive, the entire system may have to be replaced. At Duggan’s One Hour, we understand that AC repair in Augusta may mean catching an AC Freon leak before it can wreak havoc on your health and your wallet. If your unit is performing poorly, call us at (706) 914-1617.
