Definition
A refrigerant leak is an escape of refrigerant from an air conditioner or heat pump's sealed circuit, usually through corroded coils, worn joints or vibrating line connections. Because refrigerant is not used up, a system that is low has a leak. Symptoms include weak heating or cooling, longer run times, iced coils and hissing sounds.
Also called: Low refrigerant
Why it matters to you
A heat pump in SW Washington runs most of the year, so a slow leak often first shows up in winter as longer run times, more AUX heat or frequent icing of the outdoor coil. Recharging without finding the leak only buys time, and on an older system a major leak weighs heavily in a repair-or-replace decision.
Practical guidance
If you notice iced refrigerant lines, hissing or a sudden drop in performance, turn the system off at the thermostat and call a licensed technician. Ask them to locate and repair the leak rather than just add refrigerant; work on the sealed circuit requires EPA Section 608 certification.
About this definition
Written by the Home Energy Group team — a family-owned HVAC company celebrating 25 years of comfort & care across SW Washington and the Portland metro, licensed in Washington (WA LIC# HOMEEGI003J7) and Oregon (OR CCB# 184255). Definitions inform; an on-site diagnosis decides.
