auto air conditioning leak repair Unveiling the Secrets of Cool Comfort.

auto air-con leak restore, a subject usually shrouded within the complexities of automotive engineering, is definitely a journey of discovery. It’s a narrative of refrigerant whispers escaping by worn seals, the silent battles waged by O-rings in opposition to the relentless forces of time and temperature, and the detective work wanted to pinpoint the supply of those irritating leaks. From the delicate discount in cooling energy to the ominous hissing sounds, the indicators of an AC leak are a name to motion, demanding consideration earlier than a minor challenge turns into a serious, and dear, headache.

This information is designed to not solely demystify the method but additionally to empower you with the information to diagnose, restore, and keep your car’s air-con system, guaranteeing a cool and cozy journey for years to return.

The journey begins with understanding the basic culprits behind refrigerant loss, exploring the fragile dance between elements like O-rings, hoses, and the compressor seal. We’ll delve into the environmental components that speed up their demise, from the scorching warmth of summer time to the corrosive embrace of street salt. Then, we’ll equip you with the instruments and methods to establish the leak’s exact location, using strategies like UV dye, digital leak detectors, and strain testing.

Subsequent, we’ll transfer on to the sensible elements of restore, from deciding on the correct instruments and supplies to mastering the step-by-step procedures for changing O-rings, repairing hoses, and addressing compressor seal leaks. Lastly, we’ll emphasize the significance of preventative upkeep, offering a roadmap to maintain your AC system operating easily and effectively, stopping future leaks and guaranteeing your car’s local weather management stays a supply of pure, refreshing consolation.

Understanding the Basic Causes of Auto Air Conditioning Leaks Requires Cautious Examination

The automotive air-con system, a posh community of elements working in live performance, is inclined to refrigerant leaks, resulting in diminished cooling efficiency and potential system failure. Figuring out the foundation causes of those leaks is essential for efficient restore and sustaining optimum local weather management inside a car. This requires a radical understanding of the system’s susceptible factors and the environmental components that speed up part degradation.

Major Culprits Behind Refrigerant Loss

A number of key elements are continuously liable for refrigerant leaks in automotive AC programs. O-rings, hoses, and the compressor seal are among the many most typical factors of failure, every topic to degradation over time. O-rings, small rubber seals that create a good seal between elements, can dry out, crack, and lose their sealing properties as a consequence of publicity to warmth, strain fluctuations, and the refrigerant itself.

Hoses, made from rubber or an identical materials, can turn out to be porous or develop cracks as a consequence of age, vibration, and publicity to excessive temperatures, permitting refrigerant to flee. The compressor seal, designed to stop refrigerant leakage across the compressor shaft, is one other space liable to failure. This seal experiences important put on and tear as a consequence of fixed friction and publicity to excessive pressures and temperatures, ultimately resulting in leaks.

Environmental Elements Accelerating AC System Element Degradation

Environmental components play a major position in accelerating the degradation of AC system elements. Publicity to excessive temperatures, each cold and warm, may cause rubber and plastic elements to turn out to be brittle, crack, and lose their sealing capabilities. Steady publicity to excessive temperatures may cause O-rings and seals to harden and shrink, creating gaps for refrigerant to flee. Moreover, intense warmth can degrade the hoses, making them extra inclined to cracks.

Vibration, notably from driving on tough roads, can even contribute to leaks. Fixed shaking and motion can stress the connections and elements, resulting in loosening and eventual failure. Street salt, utilized in colder climates to de-ice roads, is one other important contributor to part degradation. Salt is corrosive and might speed up rust and corrosion on steel elements, such because the compressor and condenser, probably resulting in leaks.

The presence of salt can even degrade the rubber and plastic elements, making them extra susceptible to leaks.

Frequent Indicators of an AC Leak

Figuring out the indicators of an AC leak might help pinpoint the issue and information the restore course of. A number of indicators can level to a refrigerant leak.

• Diminished Cooling Efficiency: One of the vital frequent indicators is a noticeable lower within the air-con’s cooling skill. This will likely manifest because the air blowing heat as an alternative of chilly, even when the system is turned on at most settings. This implies that the refrigerant stage is low, a direct results of a leak someplace within the system.
• Uncommon Noises: Uncommon noises from the AC system can even point out a leak. A hissing or gurgling sound could point out refrigerant escaping from a leak. These noises usually originate from the compressor or the refrigerant traces.
• Seen Refrigerant Leaks: Whereas refrigerant itself is invisible, the oil used within the system, which circulates with the refrigerant, can go away seen traces. Search for oily spots or stains on the AC elements, such because the compressor, condenser, or hoses. The presence of oil signifies that refrigerant is leaking from that particular location.
• AC Compressor Clutch Biking Often: If the AC compressor clutch cycles on and off quickly, this generally is a signal of low refrigerant ranges. The low-pressure swap, designed to guard the compressor, could also be triggering the clutch to disengage when the refrigerant stage drops too low.

Figuring out the Particular Location of the Refrigerant Leak is Essential for Efficient Restore

Pinpointing the precise supply of an auto air-con leak is the cornerstone of a profitable restore. With out correct identification, technicians threat changing completely useful elements, losing time, cash, and probably damaging the system additional. This part explores the important thing strategies employed to exactly find refrigerant leaks, guaranteeing a focused and environment friendly restore course of.

Strategies for Finding Refrigerant Leaks

A number of methods can be found for figuring out the particular location of an AC leak, every with its personal benefits and drawbacks. These strategies vary from comparatively easy visible inspections to classy digital detection. Combining a number of strategies usually yields probably the most correct outcomes.

UV Dye Methodology

The UV dye methodology is a well-liked and comparatively simple method. It includes introducing a fluorescent dye into the AC system. This dye circulates with the refrigerant and can leak out wherever the refrigerant escapes, leaving a visual hint beneath ultraviolet (UV) mild.The process for utilizing UV dye is as follows:

• Including the Dye: Find the low-pressure service port on the AC system. That is usually recognized by a blue cap. Join the dye injector to the port, following the producer’s directions. Inject the suitable quantity of dye, as specified on the dye container. Over-dyeing can result in inaccurate outcomes.

• Working the AC System: Begin the car’s engine and activate the AC system to its most setting. Enable the system to run for at the least 15-20 minutes. This permits the dye to flow into all through the system and probably leak out at any current weak factors.
• Inspecting with a UV Gentle: After the AC system has run, flip off the engine and permit the system to chill down. Placed on UV-protective eyewear. Use a UV mild (usually a blue or purple mild) to examine all AC elements, together with hoses, the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and fittings. The dye will fluoresce brightly beneath the UV mild, highlighting the leak’s location. Pay shut consideration to areas with indicators of oil, because the dye usually clings to grease residue.

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Several types of UV dye can be found, usually formulated to be suitable with particular refrigerants (e.g., R-134a, R-1234yf). It is essential to pick out the right dye for the car’s AC system to keep away from contamination and guarantee correct leak detection. Some dyes additionally embody a distinction agent for simpler visibility. Within the occasion of a leak, the dye might be seen as a vivid, glowing space beneath the UV mild, permitting for exact identification of the leak supply.

For instance, if the leak is positioned at a compressor becoming, you may observe a concentrated space of fluorescence round that becoming.

Digital Leak Detectors

Digital leak detectors are extremely delicate units that may detect even minute refrigerant leaks. These detectors work by sensing the presence of refrigerant fuel.Digital leak detectors perform by utilizing a sensor that detects refrigerant molecules. When the sensor encounters refrigerant, it triggers an alarm, both audible or visible, indicating the presence of a leak. The sensitivity of those detectors may be adjusted to establish even very small leaks.

The process usually includes:

• Preparation: Guarantee the realm across the AC elements is clear. Take away any free particles that might intervene with the detector’s operation.
• Calibration: Calibrate the leak detector in line with the producer’s directions. This often includes exposing the sensor to a identified focus of refrigerant or following a selected calibration process.
• Inspection: Slowly transfer the detector’s probe alongside all AC elements, specializing in areas identified to be liable to leaks, similar to fittings, hose connections, the compressor, and the evaporator. Keep a constant pace and distance from the elements.
• Interpretation: The detector will emit an audible tone or show a visible indication when refrigerant is detected. The depth of the sign usually correlates with the leak’s dimension. Find the leak by pinpointing the realm with the strongest sign.

Digital leak detectors are notably helpful in tight areas or when a leak is troublesome to visualise. Some detectors additionally provide options like a “peak maintain” perform, which captures the very best leak focus detected, aiding in pinpointing the leak’s actual location.

Stress Testing

Stress testing includes pressurizing the AC system with an inert fuel, similar to nitrogen, and monitoring the strain over time. A drop in strain signifies a leak.The method of strain testing contains the next steps:

1. Connecting the Gauges: Join a manifold gauge set to the high- and low-pressure service ports of the AC system. Make sure the gauges are suitable with the refrigerant sort used within the car.
2. Pressurizing the System: Join a nitrogen tank with a regulator to the manifold gauge set. Open the nitrogen valve and slowly pressurize the system to the required strain, usually round 150-200 PSI for R-134a programs. Seek the advice of the car’s service guide for the right strain for the particular AC system.
3. Monitoring the Stress: Observe the strain gauges for a time period, usually at the least half-hour. If the strain drops, it signifies a leak. The speed of strain drop can present a sign of the leak’s severity.
4. Figuring out the Leak: As soon as a strain drop is confirmed, use a leak detector or a cleaning soap answer (combined with water) to verify all elements for bubbles, which might pinpoint the leak’s location. Spray the cleaning soap answer on all fittings, hoses, and elements. Bubbles point out a leak.

It is very important adhere to those security precautions:

• Eye Safety: All the time put on security glasses when working with pressurized programs.
• Air flow: Work in a well-ventilated space to keep away from inhaling refrigerant or nitrogen.
• Stress Aid: Earlier than disconnecting any gauges or elements, make sure the system’s strain has been fully launched.
• Nitrogen Security: Nitrogen can displace oxygen and trigger asphyxiation. Guarantee correct air flow and keep away from respiration nitrogen immediately.

Stress testing is a dependable methodology for confirming a leak and assessing its severity. Nevertheless, it would not at all times pinpoint the precise location. Combining strain testing with different leak detection strategies, similar to utilizing a cleaning soap answer or an digital leak detector, usually yields one of the best outcomes.

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Choosing the Acceptable Instruments and Supplies for Auto Air Conditioning Leak Restore is Important

Efficiently repairing an auto air-con leak hinges on having the correct instruments and supplies. This isn’t a process for improvisers; as an alternative, a meticulous strategy utilizing purpose-built tools and provides is essential for an enduring repair. Skimping on high quality or utilizing the flawed elements will result in repeated failures, wasted time, and pointless expense. Understanding the perform of every device and materials is step one towards reaching a professional-grade restore.

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Needed Instruments and Supplies for Auto Air Conditioning Leak Restore

The next listing Artikels the important instruments and supplies required for a complete auto AC leak restore. Every merchandise performs a selected position in diagnosing, finding, and fixing the leak, guaranteeing the system capabilities effectively and reliably.

• Refrigerant Restoration Machine: This machine is designed to soundly get better the refrigerant from the AC system earlier than any restore work begins. It prevents the discharge of dangerous refrigerants into the ambiance and permits for the refrigerant to be reused, saving prices and minimizing environmental impression. An excellent restoration machine will even be capable of measure the quantity of refrigerant recovered, which helps in diagnosing the leak severity.

• Vacuum Pump: After the restore is full and the system is sealed, a vacuum pump is used to evacuate the air and moisture from the AC system. This creates a clear, dry setting that enables the refrigerant to flow into effectively and prevents corrosion. A high-quality vacuum pump is essential for reaching the required vacuum stage.
• Refrigerant Leak Detector: These detectors are available in varied varieties, together with digital sniffers, dye-based programs, and ultrasonic detectors. Digital sniffers are the commonest and delicate, utilizing a sensor to detect refrigerant leaks. Dye-based programs contain including a fluorescent dye to the refrigerant, which may then be detected utilizing a UV mild. Ultrasonic detectors hear for the sound of escaping refrigerant.
• Manifold Gauge Set: This set contains two strain gauges (high-side and low-side) and a set of hoses. It’s used to measure the strain of the refrigerant within the AC system, permitting technicians to diagnose points like overcharging, undercharging, and blockages. The gauges additionally assist in monitoring the system’s efficiency after the restore.
• O-Ring Choose Set: This set incorporates a wide range of small, specialised instruments designed to take away and set up O-rings with out damaging them or the encompassing elements. It is important for stopping leaks throughout O-ring alternative.
• Flare Nut Wrenches: These wrenches are designed to grip flare fittings securely with out damaging them. They’re important for loosening and tightening refrigerant traces, notably these made from aluminum.
• Hose Crimper: Some AC programs use crimped hoses. A hose crimper is required to create a safe and leak-proof connection when changing or repairing these hoses. This device requires particular dies for various hose sizes.
• Refrigerant: The proper sort and quantity of refrigerant are important for the AC system to perform accurately. The kind of refrigerant used will depend on the car’s yr and mannequin.
• O-Ring Equipment: A complete O-ring package incorporates a wide range of O-rings in several sizes and supplies. This ensures that you’ve got the right O-ring readily available for each software.
• Specialised Instruments: Relying on the particular restore, you may want specialised instruments similar to line restore instruments, compressor clutch instruments, or service port instruments.

Kinds of Refrigerant, Traits, and Environmental Impacts

Understanding the several types of refrigerants utilized in automotive AC programs is essential for secure and efficient restore. Every refrigerant has distinctive traits and environmental implications.

Refrigerant Sort	Traits	Environmental Influence	Automobiles Utilizing
R-12 (Freon)	Extremely efficient refrigerant, utilized in older programs. Requires mineral oil lubricant.	Excessive Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), phased out as a consequence of environmental issues.	Automobiles manufactured earlier than 1994.
R-134a	Changed R-12 as the usual. Appropriate with most current AC elements, though some older programs may require modifications. Makes use of PAG (Polyalkylene Glycol) oil.	Decrease ODP than R-12, however nonetheless has a World Warming Potential (GWP).	Automobiles manufactured from 1994 to 2014 (approx.).
R-1234yf	A more moderen, extra environmentally pleasant refrigerant. It’s flammable and requires particular dealing with procedures and system designs. Makes use of a specialised lubricant.	Very low GWP, making it a extra sustainable possibility.	Automobiles manufactured from 2014 onwards. Many new automobiles now use R-1234yf.
R-404A	Sometimes utilized in transport refrigeration programs and a few specialised AC purposes. Requires particular elements and dealing with procedures.	Excessive GWP, however usually extra environment friendly in transport refrigeration.	Transport refrigeration items, some specialised AC programs.

Significance of Utilizing the Right O-Ring Dimension and Sort

The integrity of an AC system’s seals is essential to its efficiency. The proper choice and set up of O-rings is paramount in stopping refrigerant leaks. O-rings are small, round seals that stop refrigerant from escaping at connection factors all through the system. Utilizing the flawed dimension or materials can result in fast leaks and system failure.

• Right Dimension: O-rings are available in a wide range of sizes, and it’s essential to make use of the precise dimension specified for the appliance. Utilizing an O-ring that’s too small won’t seal correctly, whereas one that’s too massive could also be broken throughout set up or stop the elements from becoming collectively accurately. Correct measurement and referencing a elements catalog or service guide are important.

• Right Materials: O-rings are constructed from varied supplies, every with totally different properties and compatibility with refrigerants and lubricants. Frequent supplies embody:
  • Nitrile (Buna-N): A broadly used materials, suitable with R-12 and R-134a.
  • HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber): Provides improved resistance to excessive temperatures and is usually utilized in trendy AC programs.
  • Neoprene: An excellent general-purpose materials, appropriate for a spread of purposes.
  • Fluorocarbon (Viton): Provides wonderful resistance to refrigerants and excessive temperatures. Generally utilized in R-1234yf programs.
• Correct Set up: Even one of the best O-ring will fail if not put in accurately.
  • Lubrication: All the time lubricate the O-ring with the right sort of refrigerant oil (PAG or POE) earlier than set up. This helps it seat correctly and reduces friction, stopping injury throughout meeting.
  • Cleanliness: Guarantee all surfaces are clear and freed from particles earlier than putting in the O-ring. Any contamination can compromise the seal.
  • Keep away from Twisting: When putting in the O-ring, keep away from twisting or pinching it, which may create gaps and result in leaks.
• Stopping Leaks:
  

  To forestall leaks, it is important to observe the producer’s suggestions for O-ring dimension and materials, guarantee correct set up methods, and often examine the AC system for indicators of wear and tear or injury.

Repairing Auto Air Conditioning Leaks Requires Exact Execution of Procedures

The profitable restore of auto air-con leaks hinges on meticulous execution. This includes a radical understanding of the particular leak’s location, the suitable instruments and supplies, and, crucially, the exact software of restore procedures. Failing to stick to those steps can result in ineffective repairs, continued refrigerant loss, and probably, injury to the AC system elements. The next sections delve into the step-by-step procedures for frequent AC leak repairs, providing sensible steering and highlighting essential concerns for reaching lasting outcomes.

Changing O-Rings in an AC System, Auto air-con leak restore

O-rings are important seals inside an AC system, stopping refrigerant leakage at connection factors. Their degradation as a consequence of age, warmth, and chemical publicity is a typical supply of leaks. Changing them accurately is significant for sustaining system integrity.

• Preparation: Earlier than commencing, make sure the system is depressurized utilizing a refrigerant restoration machine. This can be a essential security step, stopping potential harm from escaping refrigerant. Correct security glasses and gloves have to be worn.
• Element Disassembly: Fastidiously disconnect the AC line or part containing the defective O-ring. Observe the orientation of the elements for proper reassembly. Contemplate taking an image earlier than disassembling for reference.
• Previous O-Ring Elimination: Utilizing a decide or small screwdriver, rigorously take away the outdated O-ring. Keep away from scratching the sealing surfaces, as this will create new leak paths.
• Floor Cleansing: Completely clear the connection surfaces with a devoted AC system cleaner or solvent. Take away any particles, outdated lubricant, or corrosion that might intervene with the brand new O-ring’s seal.
• New O-Ring Lubrication: Lubricate the brand new O-ring with the right sort of refrigerant oil, similar to PAG oil (Polyalkylene Glycol) for many automobiles. This lubrication facilitates set up and ensures a correct seal.
  

  Don’t use some other sort of oil or lubricant, as it could injury the system.

• New O-Ring Set up: Fastidiously set up the lubricated O-ring into its groove. Guarantee it’s seated correctly and never twisted or pinched.
• Element Reassembly: Reassemble the AC line or part, guaranteeing correct alignment. Tighten the fittings to the producer’s specified torque. Over-tightening can injury the fittings and O-ring.
• Leak Testing: After reassembly, the system have to be leak-tested utilizing a vacuum pump and a leak detector. This confirms the restore’s effectiveness.

Repairing or Changing a Broken AC Hose

AC hoses, made from rubber, can deteriorate over time, resulting in leaks. Injury can even consequence from exterior components, similar to abrasion or impression. Repairing or changing a broken hose is crucial for restoring system performance.

• Depressurization and Security: As with every AC restore, the system have to be depressurized utilizing a refrigerant restoration machine earlier than beginning. All the time put on security glasses and gloves.
• Hose Inspection and Identification: Fastidiously examine the hose for injury. Decide if the hose may be repaired or requires full alternative. Determine the sort and dimension of the hose and fittings.
• Chopping the Hose (If Changing Fittings): If changing fittings, rigorously minimize the hose utilizing a pointy hose cutter or a specialised device. Guarantee a clear, sq. minimize.
• Becoming Set up: Set up new fittings onto the hose. This will likely contain utilizing a specialised crimping device. Observe the producer’s directions for the right crimp depth and strain.
  

  Incorrect crimping can result in leaks.

• Hose Substitute (If Needed): If your complete hose wants alternative, take away the outdated hose and set up the brand new one, guaranteeing it follows the unique routing and is securely mounted.
• Leak Testing: After finishing the restore or alternative, carry out a leak check utilizing a vacuum pump and a leak detector to confirm the integrity of the restore.
• Refrigerant Charging: As soon as the leak check is profitable, evacuate the system and recharge it with the right sort and quantity of refrigerant as specified by the car producer.

Sustaining Auto Air Conditioning Techniques Can Forestall Future Leaks and Issues: Auto Air Conditioning Leak Restore

Common upkeep is the cornerstone of a wholesome and environment friendly auto air-con system. Simply as a well-maintained engine runs smoother and lasts longer, a often serviced AC system will ship constant cooling efficiency, stop pricey repairs, and prolong its operational lifespan. Proactive care is way cheaper than reactive fixes, guaranteeing your consolation and defending your funding in your car.

Ignoring routine upkeep can result in a cascade of issues, finally leaving you sweltering in the summertime warmth and dealing with important restore payments.

The Significance of Proactive AC System Upkeep

Proactive upkeep of your auto air-con system is essential for stopping leaks and guaranteeing its longevity. This includes a collection of normal checks and providers designed to establish and deal with potential points earlier than they escalate into main issues. Inspecting for leaks, checking refrigerant ranges, and changing worn elements are all important elements of this course of. These practices work in live performance to keep up optimum system efficiency, stopping untimely put on and tear, and maximizing the effectivity of your AC unit.

Repeatedly scheduled upkeep additionally permits for early detection of potential issues, similar to a failing compressor or a clogged enlargement valve, permitting you to deal with them earlier than they result in full system failure. This strategy can prevent important cash and inconvenience in the long term.To make sure your auto AC system operates at peak efficiency and longevity, adhere to a constant upkeep schedule.

• Annual Leak Inspection: Conduct a radical visible inspection of all AC elements, together with hoses, fittings, and the compressor, at the least yearly. Search for indicators of oil leaks, which frequently point out refrigerant leaks. Think about using a UV dye and a particular mild to pinpoint the precise location of leaks.
• Refrigerant Degree Test: The refrigerant stage needs to be checked yearly, ideally through the spring, earlier than the height of summer time warmth. This may be accomplished by a professional technician utilizing specialised tools.
• Recharge the System: Relying on utilization and system integrity, the AC system may want recharging each 1-2 years. Nevertheless, that is extra frequent if there are small leaks. A professional technician ought to carry out this process.
• Receiver-Drier Substitute: The receiver-drier, which removes moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant, needs to be changed each 3-5 years, or each time the system is opened for restore. This part is essential for stopping system corrosion and guaranteeing environment friendly cooling.
• Enlargement Valve/Orifice Tube Substitute: The enlargement valve (or orifice tube) controls the movement of refrigerant. These elements can turn out to be clogged or broken over time, resulting in lowered cooling efficiency. Change these elements each 3-5 years or as wanted.
• Belt and Hose Inspection and Substitute: Examine the drive belt and AC hoses for cracks, put on, or injury throughout every annual inspection. Change them as wanted to stop leaks and guarantee correct operation of the compressor.

Neglecting AC system upkeep can result in a number of undesirable penalties. Diminished cooling efficiency is usually the primary signal of hassle, adopted by the potential for compressor failure, which is a really costly restore. Different points embody the formation of ice on the evaporator core, and elevated gasoline consumption. Avoiding these points requires common upkeep, together with leak detection, refrigerant checks, and part replacements. Ignoring these easy duties can lead to pricey and inconvenient repairs, to not point out a really uncomfortable driving expertise.

FAQ Part

What’s the most typical reason for auto AC leaks?

O-ring failure is a number one trigger, as these small rubber seals degrade over time as a consequence of warmth, strain, and the refrigerant itself. Different culprits embody hose deterioration and compressor seal leaks.

How usually ought to I’ve my AC system checked for leaks?

It is a good observe to have your AC system inspected throughout routine upkeep, usually yearly or two, particularly when you discover a lower in cooling efficiency or hear uncommon noises.

Can I restore an AC leak myself?

Easy repairs, similar to changing an O-ring, are sometimes inside the capabilities of a DIY fanatic. Nevertheless, extra advanced repairs, like compressor seal replacements or hose crimping, could require specialised instruments and experience, and it is vital to watch out dealing with refrigerants.

What sort of refrigerant does my automobile use?

The kind of refrigerant utilized in your automobile will depend on its age and mannequin. Test the sticker beneath the hood or seek the advice of your proprietor’s guide. R-134a is frequent for older automobiles, whereas R-1234yf is more and more utilized in newer fashions. By no means combine refrigerants.

What are the dangers of ignoring an AC leak?

Ignoring an AC leak can result in lowered cooling efficiency, compressor injury (which is dear to switch), and potential environmental hurt as a consequence of refrigerant leakage. It will probably additionally result in extra advanced and dear repairs down the road.