What is a common symptom of a refrigerant leak in a system?

A common symptom of a refrigerant leak in a system is reduced cooling efficiency. When refrigerant escapes from the system, there isn't enough working fluid to transfer heat effectively. This can lead to warmer air being blown out of the system, making it unable to maintain the desired temperature, which is a clear indicator that something is wrong.

In addition, a leak can result in increased pressure in specific areas of the system, particularly if the refrigerant is not completely lost. However, this symptom can vary based on the system's design and exact location of the leak, making it less reliable as a primary indicator.

Higher energy costs may also be observed, as the system may run longer and more frequently in an effort to compensate for the reduced cooling efficiency. However, this symptom is often secondary and may not be as immediately noticeable as reduced cooling.

Considering these factors, the choice that encompasses all these symptoms accurately reflects the reality of refrigerant leaks in a system. Thus, recognizing all these potential symptoms as indicative of a refrigerant leak can help technicians diagnose and address issues more effectively.