Refrigerant Leak: Spot the Signs, Fix It Fast and Stay Safe in Rugby

If your fridge or freezer stops cooling, the first thing to check is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is the gas that moves heat out of your appliance, and even a tiny hole can make the unit work poorly or stop altogether. In Rugby, a leak can also become a safety issue if the gas builds up in a closed space. Below we’ll walk through the most common clues, quick DIY checks, and why calling a qualified technician is often the smartest move.

How to Tell Your Appliance Has a Leak

Look for these warning signs:

• Warm spots inside the fridge – If the freezer stays frosty but the fridge section feels room temperature, the refrigerant may be escaping.
• Hissing or bubbling sounds – A faint hiss coming from the back or underneath the unit is a classic leak cue.
• Ice buildup on the evaporator coil – Too much ice can mean the system is over‑working because it’s low on gas.
• Higher electric bills – Your fridge has to run longer to keep cool, so the meter climbs.

When you notice any of these, turn off the appliance and open a window. If the area smells slightly sweet or oily, that’s another hint the refrigerant is escaping.

What to Do Right After Spotting a Leak

First, unplug the fridge or disconnect the power. Don’t try to pour water on the coil – that can spread the gas and damage electronics. Next, locate the source. Most leaks appear at the copper tubing, the valve, or the compressor seal. You can use a simple soap‑water solution: brush it on the suspected area and watch for bubbles. Bubbles mean gas is seeping out.

While it’s tempting to patch a hole yourself, refrigerant is a regulated gas in the UK. Only certified technicians can legally recharge the system after a repair. Trying to add refrigerant yourself can be dangerous and may void any warranty you have.

Why Call Rugby Appliance Repair Services

Our team in Rugby has the tools to safely locate, seal, and recharge a leak. We use electronic leak detectors that spot even the smallest escapes, replace damaged components, and test the system to make sure it’s back to full performance. Plus, we handle the paperwork for refrigerant disposal, so you stay compliant with environmental rules.

Typical repair costs range from £120 to £250, depending on the part that needs replacing. That’s far cheaper than buying a new fridge, and it saves you the hassle of moving a heavy appliance.

Preventing Future Leaks

Regular maintenance can keep leaks at bay. Schedule a check‑up at least once a year, especially before winter when the fridge works harder. Keep the coils clean – dust and grime trap heat and stress the system. Also, avoid slamming the fridge doors; the shock can loosen seals over time.

If you hear a hissing noise or notice any of the signs above, don’t wait. A small leak can become a big problem fast, and the longer you run the appliance, the higher the energy waste.

Need a quick, reliable fix? Give Rugby Appliance Repair Services a call. Our certified technicians will diagnose the leak, fix it right, and get your fridge cooling again – all without any hidden fees.