The answer is both yes and no, depending on the severity of the leak and the system’s design.
In some cases, a significant refrigerant leak can trigger a safety feature in the system called a low-pressure cutout switch. This switch detects the low pressure caused by the leak and shuts down the system to prevent further damage. This shutdown is designed to protect the compressor from operating under abnormal conditions and potentially causing irreversible harm. So, in this sense, a refrigerant leak can indeed result in a temporary system shutdown until the issue is resolved.
However, not all HVAC systems have a low-pressure cutout switch or a similar safety mechanism. In such cases, a refrigerant leak may not immediately result in a system shutdown. Instead, the system may continue to operate inefficiently, consuming more energy and struggling to maintain the desired temperature. Over time, the strain caused by the leak may lead to compressor damage and the eventual shutdown of the system. Therefore, while a total system shutdown may not be immediate, a refrigerant leak can contribute to its failure over time.
Refrigerant leaks pose significant concerns for HVAC systems, impacting their cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and potentially damaging the compressor. While a total system shutdown may not be an immediate consequence of a refrigerant leak, it can occur in certain cases where safety mechanisms prompt the system to shut down. However, even in the absence of an immediate shutdown, the system’s overall performance will be compromised, leading to higher energy consumption, discomfort, and potential long-term damage. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly detect and repair any refrigerant leaks to ensure optimal system operation and prevent costly repairs.