Is Your Refrigerant Ready to Keep You Cool?

HVAC

Blog
// Posted by Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.

As summer heats up across Knoxville and East Tennessee, your air conditioner is working hard to keep your home comfortable. But if your system is low on refrigerant, it could be costing you more while delivering less cooling—and that can lead to bigger problems down the line. With refrigerant prices climbing due to environmental regulations and supply chain challenges, now is the smart time to address any refrigerant issues before costs go up again.

At Eco Home Solutions, we’re here to help local homeowners stay cool and save with expert refrigerant inspections, leak detection, recharge services, and affordable replacement options when needed.

Why Are Refrigerant Costs Rising?

Recent environmental laws have phased out older refrigerants like R-22 (Freon), making it more expensive and harder to find for older systems. On top of that, supply chain issues and higher raw material costs are driving up prices for all refrigerant types—including modern, eco-friendlier options like R-410A (Puron).

When combined with higher demand during summer, that means:

  • Refrigerant prices are rising across the board
  • Repairs and recharges are becoming more expensive
  • Service wait times may be longer during peak season

Key Points to Know:

  • Environmental rules and supply issues are pushing refrigerant costs higher
  • Low refrigerant levels can raise your energy bills and damage your system
  • Modern AC systems use more efficient, environmentally friendly refrigerants
  • Eco Home Solutions offers reliable refrigerant services and system upgrades
  • Early-season service helps you avoid delays and save

Why Take Action Now?

Running your system low on refrigerant can cause serious damage, especially to the compressor. And waiting too long could mean:

  • More costly repairs if damage occurs
  • Delays during the summer rush
  • Paying even more as prices increase

By acting now, you can:

  • Stay comfortable during Knoxville’s hottest days
  • Lower your cooling costs
  • Protect your AC system from unnecessary wear
  • Take advantage of current specials and financing options

Homeowners in Knoxville, Farragut, Maryville, Oak Ridge, and surrounding areas are already booking their refrigerant checks to stay ahead of the summer heat.

Signs You May Have a Refrigerant Problem:

  • Your AC runs longer but can’t keep up
  • Warm air is coming from your vents
  • Ice is forming on refrigerant lines or coils
  • Energy bills are higher than normal
  • You hear hissing or bubbling near the unit (this could mean a leak)

What to Expect from Eco Home Solutions:

  • Free in-home evaluation of your system
  • Professional refrigerant leak detection and repair
  • Recharge with the correct refrigerant for your AC
  • Affordable replacement options if your system is outdated
  • Flexible financing on major repairs or replacements

Benefits of Recharging or Upgrading Your AC System:

  • Reliable cooling performance all summer
  • Lower monthly energy bills
  • Eco-friendly refrigerants that are safer for the environment
  • Protection from costly damage to your system
  • Smart thermostat compatibility and improved comfort

Don’t Wait for Prices or Temperatures to Climb

If your AC isn’t keeping up, now is the time to act. With refrigerant costs and repair prices already rising, scheduling service early can help you stay ahead of the heat and the expense.

Call Eco Home Solutions at (865) 272-5888 to schedule your free in-home evaluation.
Ask about bundling refrigerant service with our HVAC maintenance plans, plumbing services, or water filtration solutions for even more value this summer.

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Home SOlutions
Eco Home Solutions is a locally owned company offering heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and whole-home generator services in East Tennessee  and surrounding areas. We provide sales, service, and installation for HVAC systems, plumbing, and generators in homes and light commercial buildings.
Since 1982, our founder, Mr. Richard Gilmer, has been dedicated to keeping his neighbors comfortable. We focus on eco-friendly practices and are EPA-certified, ensuring environmentally safe refrigerant recycling and equipment disposal.
Our NATE-certified, drug-free professionals work efficiently to minimize disruption. From heating and cooling to plumbing and backup power, Eco Home Solutions is proud to be your trusted partner since 1982.
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FAQ

Why is my AC unit not blowing hot air?

There are several reasons why an AC unit might not blow hot air. These include clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, electrical issues, and more. Other causes include blocked registers, ductwork problems, thermostat malfunctions, and furnace issues.

FAQ

What are the common causes of an air conditioning system not blowing air?

Poor AC airflow can be caused by blocked registers, clogged air filters, duct leaks, fan motor failure, and computer module malfunctions.

FAQ

What are the common reasons why an air conditioner may not be blowing cold air?

Common reasons include low refrigerant levels and dirty air filters. Other issues are frozen or dirty evaporator coils, blocked condenser coils, and closed vents. Problems with the thermostat, clogged drain lines, power issues, and undersized AC units also occur.

Additionally, ductwork leaks, airflow issues, and a dirty or faulty compressor can cause problems.

How can clogged air filters affect the heating performance?

Dirty air filters can block airflow. This stops the HVAC system from spreading warm air evenly. It can cause the unit to overheat and shut down, leading to no warm air in the home.

How can I troubleshoot an AC that's not blowing air?

Start by checking if the system is running by looking at the thermostat and fuse box. Then, search for any blockages or clogged air filters that might be stopping the airflow.

How does an air conditioner work?

An air conditioner uses refrigerant to take heat from the indoor air and release it outside. It has a compressor, evaporator coil, and condenser coil. These parts work together to cool the home.

What role does refrigerant play in heating, and how can leaks impact performance?

In heat pumps, refrigerant moves warm air into the home during the cold months. If there's a refrigerant leak, the system can't heat the air well. This means there won't be enough warm air.

What can cause a capacitor failure in an air conditioning system?

A capacitor failure can stop the fan motor from running, leading to no airflow from the AC. This issue needs a professional HVAC technician to fix it.

What are the main components of an air conditioning system?

The main parts are the compressor, evaporator coil, condenser coil, and refrigerant. They absorb heat from the air inside and release it outside. This keeps the home cool.

How can electrical problems lead to an HVAC system not blowing hot air?

Electrical issues like tripped circuit breakers or faulty wiring can stop the furnace or heat pump from working right. This means the system won't blow warm air.

How can a computer module malfunction affect my AC's airflow?

If the computer module controlling the compressor and fan fails, it can stop the system from blowing air. A technician must replace the faulty module to fix it.

What are the signs of a refrigerant leak?

Signs include hissing sounds, visible leaks, and a slow loss of cooling. A refrigerant leak can hurt the compressor and other parts. It's crucial to fix it quickly.

Why is it important to keep registers and ductwork clear?

Keeping registers and ductwork clear helps warm air move around the home. If they're blocked, the HVAC system can't circulate the warm air well.

What happens if the fan motor in my AC burns out?

Without a working fan motor, your AC won't blow air. This issue requires a professional to repair or replace the bad fan motor.

How can a clogged or dirty air filter affect an air conditioner?

A dirty air filter cuts down airflow, making the system work harder. This can stop it from blowing cold air and may damage parts over time.

How can ductwork leaks and insufficient insulation impact heating performance?

Ductwork leaks and not enough insulation let warm air escape. This makes it hard for the heating system to heat the home. Rodents can also damage ductwork, causing leaks.

How can duct issues cause my AC to not blow air?

Clogged or leaking ducts can block airflow, making the AC run but not cool the air. You might need professional duct cleaning and repair to fix this.

What can cause the evaporator coil to freeze up?

Dirt, debris, and low refrigerant can freeze the evaporator coil. This limits airflow and reduces cooling power.

What other furnace and heating system malfunctions can cause a lack of warm air?

Problems with the pilot light, dirty sensors, or a system that's the wrong size can also stop the heating from working right. This means not enough warm air is distributed.

What are the signs of a more serious problem with my AC's coil or compressor?

If your AC doesn't cool or blow air, it might have a coil or compressor issue, like a refrigerant leak or a failed compressor. This causes no airflow and cooling.

How can closed or blocked air registers and vents affect an air conditioner?

Closed vents can stop cool air from reaching some rooms. This leads to uneven cooling in the home.

What can cause an HVAC system to overheat and shut down?

An HVAC system can overheat and shut down for many reasons. These include its age, mechanical failures, or dirt buildup. This can cause a lack of warm air.

Why is it important to call a professional HVAC technician for AC repairs?

Trying DIY repairs can damage your air conditioning system more. It's wise to call a trusted HVAC contractor for quick and correct repairs to avoid bigger, more expensive issues.

What are some common thermostat issues that can cause an air conditioner to not blow cold air?

Thermostat problems like wrong settings or wiring issues can stop the AC from working right. They can also keep it from reaching the desired temperature.

What DIY troubleshooting steps can I try for an AC unit not blowing hot air?

Try checking the thermostat settings and batteries, replacing air filters, and cleaning the furnace. Make sure the gas supply is good. For complex issues, call a professional HVAC technician.

How can regular preventive maintenance help avoid AC airflow problems?

Regular tune-ups and cleaning by a professional HVAC technician keep your air conditioning running efficiently. This helps avoid airflow issues.

How can a clogged condensate drain line affect an air conditioner?

A clogged drain line can cause water to back up, shutting off the AC. This is a safety feature to prevent damage.

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.
Residential and light commercial heating, cooling, air quality, and plumbing are specialties at Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc. We provide home and business owners in Oak Ridge, TN and surrounding areas free estimates, service of all makes and models, and trusted solutions to everyday requirements.

We are an eco-friendly, award-winning company and uphold Better Business Bureau accreditation. Our team of professionals is NATE-certified, drug-free, and dedicated to earning your approval and loyalty.

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