Bhopal summers can be brutal, and nothing is more frustrating than an AC that’s running but not cooling. One of the most common reasons for this is low refrigerant gas. But how do you know for sure if your AC needs a gas refill? Before you call a technician, here are the top signs to watch out for.

1. AC Is Running but Not Cooling

The most obvious sign is when you set your AC to 18°C, and the air coming out of the vents is barely cool or even warm. This happens because the refrigerant is responsible for absorbing the heat from your room. If levels are low, the cooling capacity drops significantly.

2. Ice Formation on the Evaporator Coil

Check your indoor unit (split AC). If you see ice forming on the copper pipes or the evaporator coil, it’s a clear indicator of low gas. Low refrigerant levels cause the coil’s temperature to drop below freezing, turning the condensation into ice.

3. Bubbling or Hissing Noises

Refrigerant gas doesn’t just "evaporate" over time; it leaks. If you hear a slight hissing or bubbling sound around the indoor or outdoor unit, it means the pressurized gas is escaping through a tiny hole in the pipeline.

4. Sudden Spike in Electricity Bills

When the gas is low, the compressor has to work much harder and for much longer to cool the room. This increased workload leads to a massive surge in your monthly electricity bill. If your bill has doubled without extra usage, check your AC gas levels.