What can be a sign of a refrigerant leak in a system?

A refrigerant leak in a system can manifest through various signs that indicate a drop in the refrigerant level, disrupting the refrigeration cycle. Excessive frost on the evaporator occurs because, with insufficient refrigerant, the evaporator may become overly cold during operation, leading to moisture in the air freezing on surfaces.

Low pressure readings are a clear indicator of a refrigerant leak. If the refrigerant level drops, the pressure in the system will decrease, leading to measurements that fluctuate below normal operating levels.

High discharge temperature can also suggest a refrigerant leak. If there is inadequate refrigerant circulating through the system, the compressor may work harder, leading to increased temperatures in the discharge gas as it tries to compress a lesser amount of refrigerant.

Given that all these symptoms can independently indicate a potential refrigerant leak, selecting all of the above is the most comprehensive and knowledgeable choice. Recognizing these signs allows technicians to diagnose issues promptly, ensuring efficient system repair and maintenance.