- AC Refrigerant — Surprise, AZ
AC Refrigerant Recharge & Freon Refill in Surprise, AZ
When summer temperatures in Surprise reach 100°F or higher, an interruption in AC cooling can make it difficult to keep your home cool. If your AC is blowing lukewarm air or running constantly without cooling properly, it may need a refrigerant recharge.
Surprise AC Experts can connect West Valley homeowners with a local HVAC professional who can check the system, look for refrigerant leaks, and determine whether a recharge or other repair is needed.
Signs Your AC Needs a Refrigerant Recharge
The AC’s refrigerant helps to remove heat from your home. Low refrigerant levels can affect how the system cools. Some common signs include:
Hissing Sounds
A hissing sound near the refrigerant lines or indoor unit may indicate a refrigerant leak.
Ice on Refrigerant Lines or the Evaporator Coil
The refrigerant lines can develop ice due to low refrigerant levels.
Longer Cooling Cycles
The AC may run longer than usual as it struggles to reach the thermostat setting.
Higher Electric Bills
The system has to run longer because of reduced cooling efficiency, which may increase energy use.
Why Low Refrigerant Usually Means a Leak
Air conditioners use a sealed system where refrigerant circulates through the equipment. It does not normally run out during regular use.
If your AC needs a refrigerant recharge, there may be a leak in the refrigerant lines, valves, coil, or another component.
Adding refrigerant without addressing the leak may only provide a temporary solution. The refrigerant can leak out again, which may require another recharge. An HVAC professional can check the system for a leak and explain what repair may be needed.
Refrigerant Service Process
If your AC does not have enough refrigerant, a local HVAC professional can check the system for leaks and determine what repairs are needed before adding refrigerant.
Check for Leaks
The professional can use leak detection methods to find where refrigerant is leaking.
Repair the Leak
If a leak is found, they can repair the affected fitting, valve, coil, or other component as needed.
Recharge and Test the System
After repairing the leak, the technician can remove air and moisture from the system, add the required refrigerant, and test the AC to ensure it operates properly.
R-22 vs. R-410A: What Refrigerant Does Your System Use?
The type of refrigerant your AC uses can affect repair and recharge costs.
R-22 (Freon)
- R-22 is found in older AC systems. Production and import of new R-22 in the U.S. ended in 2020. Existing R-22 systems can still be serviced using available reclaimed refrigerant, but it can be more expensive than newer refrigerants.
R-410A
- R-410A was widely used in residential AC systems for many years. It does not contain chlorine and does not contribute to ozone depletion. Newer equipment is now moving to lower-GWP refrigerants.
R-454B and R-32
- These are newer refrigerants being used in modern residential AC systems as the industry moves toward lower-GWP options.
Cost Consideration
R-22 service can cost more because of the limited supply of available refrigerant. For an older R-22 system with a major leak or other expensive repair, an HVAC professional can assess the system and explain whether repair or replacement is a better option.
What Affects Refrigerant Recharge Cost
The refrigerant service cost can depend on several factors, including:
Refrigerant Type
Older R-22 refrigerant can cost more than newer refrigerants because it is being phased out.
Amount of Refrigerant Required
The amount needed depends on the AC system and how much refrigerant has been lost. A small recharge may require much less refrigerant than a full recharge after a major repair.
Leak Repair
The cost can also depend on the location of the leak and how difficult it is to repair. A simple valve repair may cost less than repairing a leaking coil.
EPA-Certified Refrigerant Service
Refrigerant handling is regulated under EPA Section 608. An HVAC professional who handles refrigerants should have the appropriate EPA certification and follow proper procedures for refrigerant recovery and handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just add refrigerant to my home AC myself?
No. Refrigerant use is regulated under EPA Section 608, and refrigerant work on residential AC systems should be performed by an appropriately certified HVAC professional. If you add refrigerant without addressing the underlying problem, the system may continue to leak or have an incorrect refrigerant charge.
How often does an AC actually need an AC coolant recharge?
A properly sealed AC system should not normally need regular refrigerant recharges. If the system needs refrigerant added, there may be a leak or another issue that should be checked before more refrigerant is added.
Is my old R-22 system still repairable?
Yes. R-22 systems can still be serviced using available reclaimed R-22. However, R-22 can be more expensive and harder to obtain than newer refrigerants. For an older system, an HVAC professional can assess the equipment and explain whether repairing it or replacing it is the better option.
Is an air conditioner refrigerant recharge covered under warranty?
Refrigerant and refrigerant-related service are not always covered under a standard equipment warranty. Coverage can also depend on whether the refrigerant leak is caused by a covered component. You should check your equipment warranty or ask an HVAC professional to review the coverage with you.
Having trouble with your AC compressor in Surprise?
Call US, and we’ll help you reach an HVAC professional who can assess the system and recommend the next step.