In Torrance and the greater South Bay area, a functioning air conditioning system is essential for keeping your home comfortable, especially during warm, dry summers. One of the most common HVAC problems we see at Total Home Environmental is refrigerant leaks in residential AC systems.
A refrigerant leak doesn't just reduce efficiency. It can also damage your system if ignored. Below, we cover the five most common causes of AC refrigerant leaks and what Torrance homeowners should watch out for.
1. Corrosion of Copper Coils
How the South Bay Climate Plays a Role
The proximity to the coast means Torrance homes are exposed to higher levels of salt in the air. This can accelerate corrosion on your outdoor AC unit, particularly on the copper evaporator and condenser coils. Corroded coils develop tiny pinhole leaks that release refrigerant slowly over time.
If your system is more than 8 to 10 years old and hasn't been serviced regularly, it may be vulnerable to this kind of leak.
2. Poor Installation or Manufacturing Defects
A Common Issue in Older Torrance Homes
Improper installation is another leading cause of refrigerant leaks. In areas like Old Torrance or the Hillside neighborhood, where many homes have retrofitted systems, it's not uncommon to find HVAC setups with weak joints, poor soldering, or faulty factory components.
These weak points often don't reveal problems immediately. However, over time, vibrations and pressure changes can cause fittings to loosen and refrigerant to leak.
3. Normal Wear and Tear
Aging Systems in Torrance's Mild Winters
While the South Bay doesn't experience extreme temperature swings, your AC system still operates under regular pressure cycles. Over time, this leads to wear on seals, joints, and connections.
Most AC systems begin to show signs of wear after 10-15 years. If your unit hasn't had a full tune-up in recent years, normal wear and tear may be the cause of a slow refrigerant leak.
4. Formicary Corrosion Inside the Home
Indoor Chemical Use Can Be a Hidden Factor
Formicary corrosion is a lesser-known but very real issue for Torrance residents. It's caused by chemical reactions between copper coils and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often found in household cleaners, air fresheners, and paint.
This type of corrosion happens inside the coils and leads to microscopic leaks that are hard to spot. If you use strong cleaning products or store paint and solvents in the home, your AC may be at higher risk.
5. Physical Damage to the Refrigerant Lines
Accidents and Pest Damage in South Bay Backyards
Refrigerant lines that run to your outdoor condenser unit can be physically damaged by:
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Lawn care equipment
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Home improvement work
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Rodents or pets chewing insulation
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Wind-blown debris or falling branches
If you notice your AC is struggling after a recent outdoor project or storm, physical damage may be to blame.
How to Tell If Your AC Has a Refrigerant Leak
Here are some signs Torrance homeowners should watch for:
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Warm air blowing from vents
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Ice buildup on the evaporator coil
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Hissing or bubbling sounds near the unit
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Longer cooling cycles
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Higher-than-usual energy bills
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Running your AC with low refrigerant can burn out the compressor and lead to expensive repairs or full system replacement.
AC Leak Detection and Repair in Torrance, CA
At Total Home Environmental, we specialize in accurate, non-invasive leak detection and fast repairs. We proudly serve homeowners in Torrance, Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes, Carson, and the surrounding South Bay area.
Our licensed HVAC technicians use electronic leak detectors, UV dye, and pressure testing to pinpoint the problem, stop the leak, and recharge your system correctly. No guesswork. No unnecessary upsells.
Schedule an AC Inspection Today
If you suspect a refrigerant leak or want peace of mind before the next heat wave, call Total Home Environmental today. We're local, experienced, and committed to keeping South Bay homes cool and efficient.