Does your air conditioner feel like it’s running but not cooling? One of the most common reasons is low refrigerant gas — and the solution is a simple AC gas top-up.
In this blog, we’ll explain what AC gas is, why it needs to be refilled, and how to know when your AC needs a gas top-up.
What Is AC Gas & Why Is It Important?
AC gas (also known as refrigerant) is a chemical fluid that helps your air conditioner absorb heat from the room and release it outside. Without it, your AC can’t cool the air properly.
Common types of refrigerant gases include:
- R22 (older models)
- R410A
- R32 (eco-friendly and used in newer models)
Over time, this gas may leak due to small holes or cracks in the copper pipes, joints, or valves — which means the cooling performance drops.
Signs Your AC Needs a Gas Top-Up
Not sure if your AC needs a gas refill? Look out for these signs:
- Weak cooling even after running the AC for a long time
- Warm air blowing from the vents
- Ice formation on the indoor unit
- Hissing sound, which may indicate a gas leak
- Increased electricity bill due to the AC overworking
- Compressor turning on and off frequently
If you notice one or more of these issues, it’s best to call a technician for inspection.
How Is AC Gas Refilled? (The Process)
Only a professional technician should perform a gas top-up. Here’s how the process usually goes:
- Leak Check – The technician will inspect pipes and joints for any leakage.
- Vacuuming the System – Removes air and moisture from the lines before refilling.
- Refilling the Gas – Refrigerant is added based on manufacturer specs.
- Testing – AC is turned on to check cooling performance and pressure levels.
Note: Refilling without fixing the leak is not recommended — it will only give short-term results.
How Often Should You Get AC Gas Refilled?
There is no fixed schedule for gas top-up. Ideally, your AC should not lose gas if installed properly. But if there’s a leak or poor maintenance, gas refilling may be needed every 1 to 3 years.
Preventive tip: Regular servicing can detect early signs of gas leakage and save you from costly repairs later.
Is It Expensive to Refill AC Gas?
The cost of gas top-up depends on:
- Type of refrigerant (R22 is cheaper, R410A and R32 cost more)
- Amount of gas required (in kilograms)
- Whether a leak repair is also needed
A small refill might cost less, but if the gas is fully empty or a leak is found, the cost will be higher due to repair and vacuuming work.
Benefits of Timely Gas Top-Up
- Restores full cooling power
- Reduces electricity bills
- Prevents compressor damage
- Keeps indoor temperature consistent
- Improves AC performance & lifespan
Conclusion
If your AC isn’t cooling like it used to, it might need a gas top-up. But remember, it’s not just about adding gas — it’s about identifying leaks, sealing them properly, and then refilling with the correct amount.
Ignoring gas issues can damage your AC’s compressor, which is much more expensive to repair.
