Is the air conditioner low on refrigerant, and how can you tell?
- The air conditioner runs but cooling is weak and the indoor unit blows lukewarm air
- Icing or oil stains at the pipe connections on the outdoor unit
- The air conditioner runs for a long time without shutting off, and your bill has gone up
- Error code: a low refrigerant or low pressure warning on many brands
These symptoms can also occur with other faults (dirty filter, fan, sensor). That is why pressure and temperature should be measured before adding refrigerant. For other possibilities, see our air conditioner not cooling article.
How is an air conditioner refrigerant refill done?
- Measurement: suction/discharge pressures and pipe temperatures are measured with a manifold.
- Leak detection: flare connections, service valves and the piping are checked with an electronic detector or foam; if necessary, a nitrogen pressure test is performed.
- Repair: the flare is renewed, brazing is done or the faulty part is replaced.
- Vacuum: if the circuit was opened, moisture and air are removed with a vacuum.
- Charging: the charge is made with the refrigerant type on the unit label (R32, R410A, etc.), calculating the manufacturer's specified amount plus an additional amount for the pipe length.
- Test: pressures, discharge temperature and current are checked.
What determines the air conditioner refrigerant refill price?
- Refrigerant type and amount: The prices and required amounts of R32, R410A and other refrigerants differ.
- Leak detection and repair: the location of the leak and the type of repair determine the labor.
- Full charge or top-up: if the circuit was opened, a vacuum and full charge are required.
- Equipment type: the refrigerant amount and labor differ greatly for split, floor-standing, multi or VRF systems.
- Access: the location of the outdoor unit and the city.
We deliberately give no figures on this page: the price varies with the equipment, pipe distance, access and city. If you send us the details, we prepare a written, itemized quote.
Older refrigerant air conditioners
For older units with R22 refrigerant, repair may not always be economical because of refrigerant availability and regulations. We evaluate together during the site survey whether repair or replacement makes more sense for these units. For leak detection on large systems, see our refrigerant leak detection and refrigerant charging page.
Service areas
In Ankara our teams are out in the field every day; we respond to breakdown calls the same day. In other provinces we work on a project, annual maintenance contract and public tender basis by sending a planned team from Ankara.
Frequently asked questions
Does air conditioner refrigerant run out?
No. An air conditioner is a closed circuit; refrigerant only decreases if there is a leak. That is why the leak must be found before adding refrigerant.
How often is air conditioner refrigerant refilled?
If there is no leak, it is not refilled. If the system needs refrigerant every year, there is an unrepaired leak in the system.
How long does an air conditioner refrigerant refill take?
A top-up alone is quick; it takes longer when leak detection, repair and vacuum are needed.
Why does the air conditioner refrigerant refill price vary?
The refrigerant type and amount, leak repair, whether a vacuum is needed, the equipment type and access determine the price.
Is the same refrigerant used in every air conditioner?
No. Each unit must be charged with the refrigerant type written on its label; different refrigerants are not mixed.