What is a common sign of a refrigerant leak in an air conditioning system?

A decrease in cooling performance and icy buildup on the evaporator coil is a common sign of a refrigerant leak in an air conditioning system. When refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, the system cannot absorb heat effectively, leading to a reduction in cooling capacity. This results in the air conditioner struggling to maintain the desired temperature, which manifests as poor cooling performance.

Additionally, as the refrigerant flow decreases, the pressure within the evaporator coil drops, causing the temperature to drop as well. If the temperature of the coil falls below the freezing point of moisture in the air, it can cause ice to form on the coil, leading to an icy buildup. This is a clear indication that the system is not functioning correctly and requires immediate attention.

In contrast, increased air flow from vents, lower energy costs, and consistent indoor temperature are typically associated with a properly functioning air conditioning system. The presence of these conditions would not typically point to a refrigerant leak, emphasizing why the first choice is the most indicative sign of such an issue.