Have you ever wondered why your air conditioner or refrigerator stops cooling properly and asked yourself, “Do I need to refill my Freon?” If so, you're not alone. Freon plays a critical role in the cooling systems of many household appliances, but many people don't fully understand what it is or how it works.

In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about Freon — from what it is and how it works, to why it’s important and what to do if your system is running low on it.

What Exactly Is Freon?

Freon is a type of gas used in air conditioners, refrigerators, and other cooling systems to help regulate temperature. Technically, it’s a refrigerant, which means it absorbs heat from one place and moves it elsewhere. The process of circulating Freon through a system is what enables your air conditioner to cool the air and keep your home comfortable.

While "Freon" is actually a brand name, it has become synonymous with refrigerants in general. The two most common types of Freon are:

  • R-22: The older, now phased-out refrigerant

  • R-410A: The newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerant

In simple terms, Freon is the lifeblood of your cooling system — without it, your air conditioner or fridge wouldn’t be able to function.

How Does Freon Work in Your Air Conditioner?

Freon moves through your air conditioning system in a continuous loop, constantly changing between liquid and gas states. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:

  1. Compression: The Freon gas is compressed in the AC unit, increasing its pressure and temperature.

  2. Condensation: The hot, high-pressure gas moves through coils and releases its heat, cooling down and turning into a liquid.

  3. Expansion: The liquid Freon passes through an expansion valve, where it rapidly cools as it expands.

  4. Evaporation: The now-cool Freon absorbs heat from the air inside your home as it moves through the evaporator coils. This process cools the air before it’s blown into your rooms.

This cycle repeats, making your home feel cool and comfortable, even on the hottest summer days.

Why Is Freon So Important for Your Air Conditioner?

Freon is the key to your air conditioner's ability to cool the air effectively. Without it, even the best AC system would just blow around warm air. Here are some of the reasons why Freon is vital:

  • Cooling Your Home: The main job of Freon is to transfer heat out of your home, keeping your living spaces cool and comfortable.

  • Preserving Food: In refrigerators, Freon helps keep food cold and fresh by removing heat from the interior.

  • Humidity Control: Freon absorbs moisture from the air, which helps lower the humidity levels inside your home, preventing dampness and mold.

  • Energy Efficiency: Proper Freon levels allow your AC to run efficiently, saving energy and lowering your cooling costs.

If your system is low on Freon, it can cause a variety of issues, including poor cooling performance and higher energy bills.

Signs You Might Be Low on Freon

Unlike gas in a car, Freon doesn’t get "used up." It circulates through a closed system, so a drop in Freon levels usually means there’s a leak. Here are some common signs that your air conditioner might need a Freon refill:

  • Warm Air Blowing: If your air conditioner is blowing warm air or not cooling effectively, low Freon could be the cause.

  • Constant Running: Your AC might run constantly without cooling the space.

  • Higher Energy Bills: If your system is working harder to cool the air, it can lead to higher energy costs.

  • Ice Formation: Ice forming on the evaporator coils or refrigerant lines can indicate a low Freon level.

  • Hissing or Bubbling Sounds: These noises may signal a Freon leak.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician for a Freon check.

Can I Refill My Freon Myself?

While you might be tempted to tackle the job yourself, refilling Freon is not something you can legally do on your own unless you’re certified by the EPA. Freon is a chemical that requires careful handling due to its potential hazards to both people and the environment.

Only licensed HVAC professionals can:

  • Diagnose a Freon leak

  • Refill your system with the correct amount of refrigerant

  • Repair any issues causing the Freon loss

Attempting to handle Freon without proper training is dangerous and illegal in many areas. Always consult a professional if you suspect your system is low on refrigerant.

What to Do If You Need a Freon Refill

If your air conditioner is low on Freon due to a leak or other issue, here’s what the HVAC technician will typically do:

  1. Find and Fix the Leak: The technician will locate and repair any leaks in your system.

  2. Refill the Freon: They will add the correct type and amount of Freon to your system.

  3. Test the System: After the refill, the technician will ensure your air conditioner is cooling properly and performing at its best.

The Future of Freon

Because older refrigerants like R-22 contribute to ozone depletion, their production has been phased out in the U.S. as of 2020. Here’s what that means for you:

  • R-22 Systems: If your system still uses R-22, it’s legal to continue using it, but R-22 is no longer produced in the U.S., and it’s becoming increasingly difficult (and expensive) to refill these systems.

  • R-410A Systems: Newer systems use R-410A, which is much safer for the environment and will be more widely available for the foreseeable future.

If you have an older air conditioning system that uses R-22, now may be the time to consider upgrading to a newer model with R-410A for improved energy efficiency and better environmental impact.

How to Keep Your Freon Levels in Check

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your system running smoothly. Here are a few tips to maintain the right level of Freon and keep your AC functioning properly:

  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Have your air conditioner serviced at least once a year to ensure everything is running efficiently.

  • Change Filters Regularly: Dirty filters can strain your system and lead to poor performance.

  • Look for Leaks: If you notice weak airflow or warm air, don’t ignore it — it could be a sign of a Freon leak.

  • Call a Professional: Always contact an HVAC technician if you suspect there’s an issue with your Freon levels.

Conclusion

Freon is an essential part of your air conditioner and refrigerator’s ability to cool your home and preserve food. Without it, your system can’t function properly, leading to discomfort, higher energy bills, and potential system damage.

If you notice any signs of low Freon, don’t hesitate to contact a professional HVAC technician. They’ll ensure your system is recharged and running efficiently, keeping your home comfortable and your appliances in top shape.

Stay cool this season — contact Old School Cooling today to schedule an AC check-up or refill your Freon!