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How to Tell if the AC Is Leaking Refrigerant and Needs Repair

A refrigerant leak can quickly become a major issue for homeowners and businesses. It can lower cooling efficiency, drive up energy costs, damage the HVAC system, and even affect comfort. Common signs such as strange sounds from the AC, uneven cooling, or surprising increases in utility bills may point to a refrigerant leak. Identifying these early signs can prevent expensive repairs and safeguard indoor air quality. This guide explores the key indicators of refrigerant leaks and explains why taking quick action is vital for comfort, cost savings, and safety.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Frost or ice on evaporator coils is often a red flag for a refrigerant leak. Typically, refrigerant flows through these coils at the perfect pressure and temperature, absorbing heat from the air. But when a leak causes refrigerant levels to drop, the remaining refrigerant expands too much, causing the coils to dip below freezing. This results in moisture freezing on the coils, creating troublesome ice buildup. If ice keeps forming, it’s time for professional help to keep the fridge running smoothly.

Ice buildup triggers a chain reaction that reduces efficiency. The layer of ice acts as an insulator, preventing the refrigerant from effectively absorbing heat. As a result, the AC system works harder to maintain the correct temperature, leading to higher energy consumption and an increased risk of compressor damage. Even after defrosting, persistent ice on the evaporator coils indicates a potential refrigerant leak that requires professional inspection. Addressing the issue promptly ensures the system runs smoothly and prevents further damage.

The AC Is Not Cooling Properly

A refrigerant leak in an air conditioner often results in reduced cooling performance. Refrigerant plays a crucial role in absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outside. When refrigerant levels drop below the manufacturer’s specifications, the system cannot efficiently complete the heat exchange process. As a result, warm air may blow from the vents despite a low thermostat setting, or the air may feel only mildly cool instead of properly chilled.

This inefficiency forces the air conditioning system to run longer to reach the desired temperature, leading to extended cooling cycles. The unit works harder to compensate for the reduced refrigerant levels, consuming more electricity and increasing energy bills, as the AC may operate up to 20–30% longer than necessary. Prolonged low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze and potentially damage the compressor, leading to costly repairs.

Unusual Sounds

Unusual sounds emanating from the air conditioning or refrigeration system can clearly indicate a refrigerant leak. When refrigerant escapes through a crack or hole in the system’s components, it creates distinctive noises as the pressurized gas forces its way out. The most common sound is a high-pitched hissing or whistling, similar to air escaping from a balloon, which occurs when refrigerant leaks from a smaller opening in the system’s tubing or connections.

In cases where the leak is more significant or occurs near the evaporator coil, bubbling or gurgling sounds may be heard. These noises happen because the refrigerant changes state between liquid and gas as it escapes, creating turbulence in the system. Additionally, suppose the leak is submerged in oil or occurs in a location where condensation has collected. In that case, the escaping refrigerant can create a bubbling effect through these liquids. Any such unusual sounds should be investigated promptly by a qualified HVAC technician, as refrigerant leaks compromise system performance.

About Clemmer Services

With over 20 years of experience, Clemmer Services has been the trusted HVAC and plumbing solutions provider in Santa Clarita, CA. Committed to delivering high-quality plumbing services and energy-efficient HVAC systems, they ensure homeowners enjoy the comfort they deserve. For reliable refrigerant leak repair services in Santa Clarita, CA, contact Clemmer Services today.

Schedule Gas Leaks Detection Services To Stay Safe

Homeowners must be aware of the threat of a gas leak in their house, as it can pose serious dangers such as fire, explosions, and health issues for anyone living in the house.

Recognizing the signs of a gas line leak early and arranging for professional repairs is vital in minimizing these risks. It’s crucial to schedule gas leak detection services promptly and to carry out any necessary gas line repairs as soon as possible to prevent potential hazards.

Santa Clarita, CA, plumbers offer valuable insights into the dangers of gas pipe leaks, their symptoms, and the appropriate actions to take in the event of a gas leak.

Major Dangers Gas Leaks Can Cause

Homeowners must understand the dangers of a natural gas leak in their homes. A gas leak can lead to severe risks such as fire, explosions, and health issues for family members. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify the signs of a gas line leak and promptly seek professional repairs.

Scheduling gas leak detection services quickly and addressing necessary gas line repairs can greatly reduce the risk of these hazards.

Signs of Gas Leaks to Watch For

Homeowners must know how to catch the signs of a gas leak, for it can harm homes and families. Some of the signs property owners should watch for are the following:

• Strong odor: A sulfurous or rotten egg smell is a typical indication of a gas leak.
• Hissing sounds: Watch for hissing or whistling sounds near gas appliances or pipes.
• Dead vegetation: Noticeable brown patches of grass or dying plants around the home.
• Physical symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath can indicate carbon monoxide poisoning.

It is best to contact a professional plumber immediately if these symptoms are present. Prompt gas leak detection and gas line repairs are crucial in maintaining household safety.

Follow These Steps in Case of a Gas Leak

Gas leaks pose a serious threat to the well-being of families and the safety of the property. If suspected, it’s crucial to act orderly by following these steps:

1. Evacuate immediately: Leave the area without delay and avoid using electronic devices, which could trigger a fire or explosion.
2. Contact emergency services: Once outside, immediately notify the local gas company or emergency services. They will dispatch someone to evaluate the situation and take the necessary measures to address it.
3. Professional repairs only: Skilled repairs for gas leaks are vital, as they demand specialized expertise. It’s unsafe for homeowners to try to fix a gas leak alone.
4. Avoid re-entry: Return to the premises only if the gas company confirms it is safe.

About Clemmer Services 

For more than 30 years, the experts at Clemmer Services have provided quality plumbing services throughout Barstow. They offer straightforward pricing, and their experts speak Spanish. Call them today for gas leak repairs in Santa Clarita, CA.

Efficiently Heat Your House With a Heat Pump

While many homeowners might immediately turn to a forced-air system like a furnace or air conditioner to keep their house comfortable all year, a heat pump can be the smarter choice. 

Unlike other HVAC systems, heat pumps operate more energy-efficiently, saving homeowners money on utility bills. 

In this post, learn more about heat pumps, including how they operate, their benefits, and the signs indicating heat pump repairs are needed.

Learn About Heat Pump Systems

While heat pumps offer property owners a lot of upside, many homeowners might not consider installing one because they need to familiarize themselves with how it operates.

Unlike the typical forced-air systems, heat pumps transfer heat instead of generating it. This makes them more energy-efficient. They also can heat and cool a house, allowing homeowners to invest in and maintain two separate systems.

When heating a home, the heat pump extracts heat from the outside air, even in cold temperatures, and brings it indoors. On the contrary, it removes the heat from the home and releases it outdoors in summertime.

Biggest Advantages of Heat Pumps

When scheduling a heat pump installation, homeowners will enjoy numerous benefits. 

Heat pumps use less energy to make homes comfortable than forced-air heating and cooling systems. They also perform heating and cooling duties, reducing the costs for property owners to have lower utility bills. 

In addition to these benefits, heat pumps are quieter than traditional HVAC units, and they use air filters to improve the indoor air quality in a house.

Symptoms of Heat Pump Repairs

Homeowners must schedule heat pump repairs as soon as possible to keep their houses warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Here are some key signs homeowners should watch for indicating that the system needs repair:

• Uneven Comfort: Noticeable hot or cold spots in your home.
• Noisy Operation: Unusual sounds like rattling, clicking, or buzzing.
• Soaring Energy Bills: Increased energy consumption without changes in usage.
• Weak Airflow: Reduced airflow from your vents.
• Frequent Cycling: The unit turns on and off excessively.
• Error Messages: Check for error codes on the unit’s display.
• Musty Smells: A musty odor could signal evaporator coil issues.

If homeowners notice these signs, they should schedule heat pump repairs with a trusted local heating contractor as soon as possible.

About Clemmer Services

The experts at Clemmer Services perform complete plumbing and HVAC services to the Santa Clarita, CA area. With more than 20 years of experience, they offer straightforward pricing, on-time services, and have Spanish-speaking technicians. Call them today for heat pump services in Santa Clarita, CA.

What Is Backflow?

When water flows in opposite directions through a plumbing system, it can result in a plumbing problem called backflow. This issue happens due to a loss of water pressure, a cross-connection, and other factors. Backflow can easily contaminate water and enter a home’s clean water supply, posing severe health risks for the household.

Due to the nature of the problem, homeowners must understand the importance of backflow testing and how it protects their homes from the risk of spoiling clean water. In this post, plumbers in Santa Clarita, CA, explain why backflow testing is important to maintain a safe and clean water supply for families and the community.

Dangers of Backflow

Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows back into a home’s clean water supply. This can be extremely risky for households because, aside from the possibility of causing severe property damage, the family’s health is also at risk.

When this happens, it can result in significant consequences for households. Some of the biggest threats family members can experience are:

• Waterborne illnesses: Exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Property damage: Corrosion of pipes and fixtures.
• Financial loss: Costs associated with cleanup and repairs.

Protecting a home and family from these risks is crucial. Homeowners must act quickly to schedule backflow testing with a professional. 

What Is Backflow Testing?

Conducting backflow testing ensures that a home’s water supply remains safe and clean. When the authorized testers arrive at a house to perform the procedure, they will test backflow prevention devices to verify if they are functioning properly.

These devices act as a barrier, preventing contaminated water from entering their clean water supply. Regular testing for backflow preventers is essential to maintain their effectiveness and protect the family’s health.

If any issues are found during the simulated backflow event done during testing, they can be repaired or replaced before an actual backflow event occurs. By scheduling annual backflow testing, homeowners safeguard their homes from potential water contamination and comply with local regulations.

Importance of Backflow Testing

Backflow testing protects the home’s water supply and the health of the residents and surrounding community. Scheduling maintenance testing ensures the home’s backflow prevention devices function correctly and prevent contaminated water from entering its clean water supply. If the backflow preventer is malfunctioning, plumbers can repair it promptly.

Backflow testing requires specific services that only trained and certified technicians can perform. This procedure is crucial for homes and their communities, so it has to be done by the book. Some advantages these services provide include:

• It protects public health: Testing prevents the spread of waterborne illnesses.
• It safeguards the water supply: Keeping the household’s drinking water clean and safe.
• It prevents property damage: Reduces the risk of water damage caused by contamination.
• It meets legal requirements: It keeps homes compliant with local health and safety regulations.

By prioritizing backflow testing, homeowners take proactive steps to safeguard their families and community.

About Clemmer Services

The experts at Clemmer Services offer complete plumbing and HVAC services to the Santa Clarita, CA area. With more than 20 years of experience, they offer straightforward pricing, on-time services, and have Spanish-speaking technicians. Call them today for backflow prevention services in Santa Clarita, CA.

Simple Steps To Avoid Plumbing Issues on Summer Vacation

Memorable summer vacations can be the best part of summer. But before families hit the road for a trip, it’s essential to take key steps around their house to avoid major plumbing damage.

To avoid leaks and other problems while the household is away, Santa Clarita, CA plumbers recommend taking simple steps, like turning off the main water line, shutting off the water heater, and scheduling a plumbing system inspection.

Shut off the Main Water Valve Before Leaving on Vacation

Homeowners should be able to relax while on vacation and not stress about potential water damage and plumbing issues like water leaks or pipe bursts. They can get peace of mind by turning off their main water shutoff valve before they leave. 

Doing this can result in many advantages for homeowners, including:

• Assurance they aren’t coming home to a flooded house: Knowing their home is protected from potential leaks and floods allows homeowners to unwind and enjoy their time away. 
• Prevention of expensive water damage: A burst pipe or hidden leak can cause major destruction, leading to expensive repairs and major headaches. Shutting off the water supply significantly reduces this risk.
• Lower utility bills: Even small leaks waste water, translating to higher utility bills. Turning off the supply during an absence prevents these unnecessary expenses for households.

This small precautionary step can save homeowners a lot of trouble and expense. 

Prevent Water Damage by Turning off the Water Heater

Many homeowners forget to turn off their water heaters when leaving on vacation. This might seem like an unnecessary step, but taking a couple of minutes to do it before a trip can result in numerous benefits for a household.

If a water heater develops issues while the family is away, they can return home to major water damage and flooding. This can result in expensive repairs and replacements. If a leak occurs while the family is away, their water and energy bills can also rise. 

Instead, homeowners can experience numerous benefits by shutting off the water heater, including:

• Peace of mind knowing that their home is protected from potential water damage allows them to relax and truly enjoy their trip
• Money savings by turning off the water heater through lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills

Taking this small step can save homeowners a lot of hassle and expenses down the road. 

Book Professional Plumbing Inspections

Summer vacations are for relaxation, not worrying about potential plumbing problems. To ensure peace of mind while they’re away, homeowners should consider a pre-vacation checkup or plumbing maintenance for their home’s system by a professional. In addition to professional help, homeowners can take proactive steps by performing the following tasks:

• Inspect their system for drips or leaks around faucets, toilets, and pipes. Addressing a small leak now can prevent a major headache upon their return.
• Listen for unusual sounds like gurgling noises or other strange rumblings from the pipes, which could indicate potential clogs or problems. 
• Check the water heater tank for leaks and ensure the pilot light is lit. If they notice any leaks or the pilot light is out, they should schedule repairs before they leave.

By taking these simple steps, homeowners can confidently head off on their vacations, knowing their homes are less susceptible to plumbing disasters while away.

About Clemmer Services

The experts at Clemmer Services provide friendly services you can trust. They have been in business for over 30 years, speak Spanish, and offer straightforward pricing. Call them today for plumbing services in Santa Clarita, CA.

Easy Ways To Lower Water Bills

With spring and summer on its way, homeowners must take critical steps to reduce their water bills. The good news is that small changes can significantly impact households, allowing them to decrease their water usage and lower their water bills.

Plumbers near Santa Clarita, CA, reveal three ways households can lower their water bills: using less water, installing water conservation fixtures, and detecting leaks as soon as possible.

Save Water on Daily Tasks

Household members can waste a lot of water each day without even realizing it. Fortunately, there are easy ways they can reduce their water use.

An easy way to conserve water is to be aware of when they use it unnecessarily. This can include daily tasks like brushing their teeth or shaving. If family members keep the water running the whole time, it can add up to much wasted water. Another way to waste a lot of water is by taking longer showers than needed. Trimming these can quickly save water.

Household members should also avoid washing dishes by hand and instead use the dishwasher. Instead of doing numerous smaller loads, they should also wait to do laundry until they have a full load.

Property owners can reduce wasted water on outside chores by only watering the grass during the morning and evening and avoiding the hottest parts of the day. During the peak heat, the water will evaporate, resulting in wasted water.

Add Low-Flow Faucets & Showerheads

Property owners can install water-reducing plumbing fixtures to lower their water bills. Dual-flush toilets, low-flow faucets, and low-flow showerheads are common water-saving devices in homes.

Dual-flush toilets give property owners more control over how much water is used when flushing the toilet. Household members can choose between a low-volume flush or a high-volume flush based on whether they dispose of liquid or solid waste.

Low-flow faucets and showerheads can save water without creating a noticeable difference between these and traditional units. They combine air with water to offer normal water pressure even though they use less water.

Watch for Plumbing Leaks

Leaks in the plumbing system can quickly waste a lot of water and raise homeowners’ bills. To curb this, property owners need to identify the signs that indicate a leak in the system.

Plumbers suggest that households watch for critical symptoms that can signal a leak. Some of the more obvious signs family members might notice are wet spots on the walls or ceilings, evidence of mold, lower water pressure coming from the fixtures, or higher water bills than usual.

There are also less obvious symptoms to look for. Plumbers recommend listening to the pipes when all the plumbing appliances and fixtures are turned off. If there are sounds of running water, it can signal a leak. Property owners should also check the water meter. If the meter runs without plumbing devices, it can indicate a leak. Homeowners should schedule water leak detection services and repairs when they suspect a leak.

About Clemmer Services

For more than 30 years, Clemmer Services has provided quality plumbing and HVAC services to San Bernardino County. A family-owned and operated company, they offer straightforward pricing and bilingual services for Spanish-speaking clients. Call them today for plumbing services in Santa Clarita, CA.