Can I Run My AC Unit If It’s Leaking Refrigerant?

If your air conditioning system is leaking refrigerant, you may be tempted to continue running it to stay cool—especially during a heatwave. But doing so can lead to more harm than good. Refrigerant is essential for your AC system to remove heat from your home. Without the proper level of refrigerant, the system can’t function efficiently or safely.

At ACE Appliance Heating and Cooling, we get this question all the time, and the short answer is: no, you shouldn’t run your AC with a refrigerant leak. Not only does it reduce cooling performance, but it can also damage internal components, raise energy bills, and create safety concerns. Addressing the problem early can save you hundreds—if not thousands—in repair costs.

Ignoring the leak can result in a total system breakdown, possibly requiring a full compressor replacement or even a new AC unit. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the warning signs, associated risks, and what steps to take when you suspect a refrigerant leak in your HVAC system.

A refrigerant leak doesn’t always make itself obvious right away. In fact, many homeowners may not realize there’s an issue until their air conditioner begins to underperform. However, there are several common warning signs that can suggest your AC system is leaking refrigerant and needs attention. Recognizing these early indicators can help prevent further damage and avoid a complete system breakdown:

It’s important to note that refrigerant does not “run out” like fuel—it only escapes when there is a leak. If you see any of these signs, call Ace Appliance Heating and Cooling right away for diagnostics and repair. Prompt action helps prevent more expensive system damage and keeps your home comfortable.

Running your AC unit while it’s leaking refrigerant may seem harmless in the short term, but it puts excessive stress on every part of the system. The compressor—the heart of the unit—is especially vulnerable to overheating and failure. Once damaged, replacing it can be as costly as installing a new system.

Low refrigerant levels also reduce the cooling capacity of your unit. That means it will run longer and harder, leading to higher utility bills. Meanwhile, moisture can enter the system through the leak, causing corrosion and internal contamination. These conditions dramatically shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Finally, depending on the type of refrigerant used, leaks can also pose environmental and health risks. Some refrigerants are greenhouse gases, while others can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces if leaked in large quantities.

If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s not just a maintenance issue—it’s a system emergency. The sooner you schedule a service call, the better the outcome for your comfort, budget, and HVAC longevity.

First, don’t panic—but don’t wait either. Turn off the AC system to prevent further damage, especially if you notice ice buildup or weak airflow. Avoid DIY repairs, as refrigerant handling requires EPA-certified technicians with specialized tools and safety protocols.

At Ace Appliance Heating and Cooling, our licensed HVAC technicians use state-of-the-art leak detection methods to locate the exact source of the issue. We’ll repair the leak, recharge your system with the correct refrigerant type, and test for pressure and performance.

Preventative care is also essential. Scheduling routine maintenance allows us to catch refrigerant issues early, clean coils, and keep your system running efficiently. A small leak today could be a major repair tomorrow.

Trying to operate an AC system with a refrigerant leak is like running a car without oil—it may work briefly, but damage is inevitable. Professional HVAC service ensures the leak is handled correctly and that your system operates within manufacturer specifications.

Our team at Ace Appliance Heating and Cooling is trained, insured, and equipped to handle refrigerant issues quickly and safely. We provide transparent pricing, honest diagnostics, and top-tier service to restore your cooling system’s performance and lifespan.