How to Detect AC System Leaks in Your Royal Palm Beach Home
Air conditioners need routine care and maintenance to perform at their best — especially in Florida’s heat. One of the most common (and sneakiest) issues we see at Pro-Tech Air is a coolant leak.
Coolant (also called refrigerant) is what allows your AC to pull heat out of the air and keep your home cool. When there’s a leak, your system runs harder, costs more to operate, and often still fails to keep you comfortable.
Here’s how to spot the signs early — and why it’s important for homeowners in Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, and nearby towns to take action quickly.
Signs You Might Have a Coolant Leak in Your AC System
Think something’s off with your AC? Keep an eye out for these common warning signs:
1. No Cold Air
If your vents are blowing warm or lukewarm air, your AC could be low on refrigerant. Without enough coolant, your system can’t properly absorb heat — and you’re left sweating indoors.
Does your thermostat say one thing, but the room temperature says another? This is often the first sign of a refrigerant leak.
2. Hissing or Gurgling Noises
Hearing strange noises when your AC kicks on? A hissing or bubbling sound can mean refrigerant is leaking from a tiny hole or crack in the line.
In homes across Loxahatchee, Westlake, and Lake Worth, our technicians often locate leaks by following these sounds during a system inspection.
3. High Electricity Bills
If your utility bills are spiking but your home doesn’t feel cooler, your system could be overcompensating for lost refrigerant.
A leak forces the AC to work harder, for longer periods, just to maintain the same temperature — which drives up your energy costs and increases wear on the system.
4. Strange Chemical Smell
Refrigerant is typically colorless and odorless, but many manufacturers now add dyes or faint scents for safety.
If you notice a sweet or chemical-like odor near your AC, that could be a sign of a refrigerant leak — especially if you also see unusual stains (bright yellow, green, or pink) near the coils or lines.
How the Pros Detect Coolant Leaks
At Pro-Tech Air, we use several professional-grade methods to accurately diagnose refrigerant leaks, including:
✅ Electronic Leak Detectors
These sensitive devices read the air around your AC components. If the detector senses elevated refrigerant levels, it lights up or beeps to pinpoint the leak’s location.
✅ UV Dye Detection
Some systems already use UV-reactive dye in the coolant to help with leak detection. If needed, we can safely add dye and use a black light to locate even tiny pinhole leaks.
✅ Soap Bubble Test
A simple but effective method for identifying small leaks at joints or fittings. We spray the suspected area with a soapy solution and watch for bubble formation — a sign of escaping gas.
✅ Nitrogen Pressure Test
This is one of the most reliable ways to check for leaks, especially when others fail. We pressurize the lines with nitrogen and monitor for pressure loss, which indicates a hidden refrigerant leak.
Don't Let a Small Leak Become a Big Problem
Coolant leaks don’t fix themselves. Left unresolved, they can damage the compressor, reduce system efficiency, and even lead to early system failure — something no homeowner wants, especially in the Florida summer.
If you live in Royal Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Palm Springs, or Juno Beach, let the team at Pro-Tech Air inspect your system and keep your AC running smoothly.
Call Pro-Tech Air for Expert AC Leak Detection & Repair
Whether you’ve noticed warm air, odd noises, or just higher energy bills, it’s worth having your system checked by a professional.
At Pro-Tech Air, we’re proud to help local families stay cool, comfortable, and confident in their HVAC system — no upsells, no stress, just honest answers and reliable service.
📞 Call Ed and the Pro-Tech Air team today to schedule your AC inspection or refrigerant service in Royal Palm Beach and nearby areas.
