

Fortunately, even the tiniest of leaks can be found utilizing a special fluorescent dye to pinpoint the exact area of a leak. You may likely notice the air conditioner has a leak even before it’s diagnosed because the air coming out of the vents will not be as cold. A dependable automotive center, like Sun Devil Auto, will use specialized equipment to safely contain the Freon from the air conditioning system to prevent contaminating the environment. It’s also important to note that proper disposal of used refrigerant is to be done so responsibly. When a leak is present, your vehicle exposes this hazardous chemical gas into the environment.

It’s important to fix any leaks in the system as soon as possible not only for your own personal comfort but also because refrigerant is dangerous to the ozone and emits greenhouse gasses. Having the refrigerant cycle through the system, even in the winter, is vital to the operation of the air conditioner. Even in the winter, your air conditioning system is used in assisting the defroster via the air compressor to remove condensation on the inside of the windshield. The refrigerant in the system carries the oil that lubricates the internal components if the refrigerant is low the oil is not circulating and can damage components like the compressor.

Leaks within the air conditioning system should never be ignored. When temperatures begin to rise, the fluid condenses again, so that it may continue to cycle through the system. The refrigerant evaporates, within the system, which is what keeps you cool and comfortable behind the wheel. Your car’s air conditioning is a closed system that relies on refrigerant to do the job of cooling the cabin area of the vehicle. However, R-12 has been barred from production and R-134 will be removed from production by 2020 due to the damaging effects to the environment. Also known as chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, the most common type of refrigerant in today’s vehicles is R-12 and R-134A. Individuals who are exposed should seek immediate medical attention.
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However, they can be toxic if inhaled or if they come in contact with skin or eyes. Most are odorless, colorless, and non-flammable. At room temperature, the refrigerant is a gas but turns into a liquid when cold or compressed. The refrigerant is made up of a mix of chlorine, fluorine, carbon hydrogen, or bromine.

Similar to how the brand Kleenex became synonymous with the tissue, Freon is actually a registered trademark for a product used as a refrigerant in a vehicle’s air conditioning system. During this time, it’s easy to forget to check the level of Freon, leaks, and the function of other air conditioning components but it’s important that these items are inspected year-round. That’s why it’s important to ensure your air conditioning is working all through the year. Considering that your car interior is often hotter than the outside temperature, the need for air conditioning throughout these seasons is just as vital as it is during the summer months. Fall and Winter months often produce cooler mornings and evenings but with sunshine, the days can be rather warm.
