We recently found and pinpointed a leak in my copper refrigerant line (the non-insulated line) and was wondering if there was anyway to repair and replace that one spot on the line (like if there were a water leak)? The spot is outside and accessible. Do they sell repair kits for something like this? I just want to know before I spend almost 1500 to get the entire lines replaced all together.
Repairing Leak in Refrigerant Lines
central-airhvacleak
Related Solutions
I would chisel out around the pipe a little about 1/4" wide 1/2" deep. clean it up good. Pipe and concrete. Then use a concrete sealant. $75 is overpriced.
This is under $10 and makes a flexible water seal.
Sikaflex 10 fl. oz. Crack Sealant
Air Conditioner woes: water pooling in basement, condensation on ducts, frost on outdoor copper pipe
You are correct that the refrigerant is not a consumable. If a system is low on refrigerant, then it has a leak. The technician should have a "sniffer" tool that can detect refrigerant leaks. If they didn't use it last time, then they were irresponsible. Also, refrigerant is expensive so that attitude of "if it gets low again then we know you have a leak" is wasteful of your time and money.
If the compressor in the condenser (the outside unit) is running and the air is not cool, then you are probably low on refrigerant. Frost on the refrigerant is also a pretty clear sign of low refrigerant.
I am additionally concerned about the condensation on your duct work. Is the air handler inside the conditioned envelope of the house? If so, that could explain the condensation you are seeing now but would not be seeing normally.
Related Topic
- Plumbing – What’s the most cost effective solution for repairing a slab leak
- Does a central A/C with copper lines that are too small cause compressor and diaphragm failure
- Pool pump shaft seal leak…or something else
- HVAC is suddenly blowing room temperature air—compressor, fan still turn on
- Water – Replace Water Shutoff Valve Stem with Repair Kit
- How serious is a badly kinked suction line on a split system A/C
- How to repair leak between P-trap arm and drain pipe
Best Answer
An HVAC technician should be able to repair the line, assuming the rest of the line is in good shape. Refrigerant line repair is not a diy project, as it requires specialized tools and training, as well as a license in most places.
After the leak is repaired, you'll have to recharge the system. Which also is not a project for a typical diyer.