Understanding an AC refrigerant recharge

A refrigerant recharge restores the specified amount of refrigerant after a leak, repair, or another condition that has left the system undercharged. It is not a routine requirement for a properly sealed air conditioner.

Refrigerant absorbs heat in the indoor coil and releases it outdoors. Too little or too much refrigerant can affect cooling, efficiency, and compressor operation, so the charge must match the equipment's requirements.

Find the Cause of Refrigerant Loss

Before adding refrigerant, a technician should determine why the system is undercharged. A connection that is not fully sealed, including a flare joint, is one possible cause. The leak should be located and corrected before the charge is restored.

Follow the Procedure for Your System

Inverter and fixed-speed systems operate differently, and each model has its own charging procedure. An inverter changes compressor speed to match demand; a fixed-speed system normally cycles the compressor on and off.

A proper recharge follows the manufacturer's instructions. Depending on the equipment and the work required, this may include refrigerant recovery, leak testing, evacuation, and charging by weight with an allowance for line length.

Pressure readings alone do not establish the correct charge for every operating condition. The technician must use the measurements, operating mode, and procedures specified for that system. An inverter system can be charged accurately when the correct procedure is followed.

AEL&L provides refrigerant service with trained technicians. Diagnostic and refrigerant service rates are listed on our prices page.