With the arrival of summer, the use of air conditioners (ACs) in homes and offices becomes commonplace. As the temperature rises, so does the demand for ACs. However, if your AC is not providing the same cooling as before, there could be several reasons. Sometimes, the cause is dirty filters or lack of timely servicing; other times, the real culprit is an AC gas leak. If the gas leaks, you'll need to have the AC gas refilled.
But do you know how much this process costs and which gas is used in your AC? Many people, lacking this information, end up spending more than necessary or are tricked by local technicians. Therefore, today we will tell you all the essential things related to AC gas refills—so that you can become a smart consumer and avoid being cheated.
Gases Used in ACs
1. R22 gas: This is found in older AC models. Its use is gradually decreasing because it harms the ozone layer.
2. R410A gas: This is a slightly more advanced version, but it still has an environmental impact.
3. R32 gas: Currently, most new models use R32 gas. It is not only environmentally friendly but also considered better in terms of energy efficiency.
Real Reasons Behind Reduced AC Cooling
• Dirty filters – If you haven't cleaned your AC for a long time, the dust accumulated in the dust filter can restrict airflow.
• Delayed servicing – AC servicing is essential every season. If servicing is not done on time, cooling may weaken.
• Compressor or motor problems – Technical faults such as compressor malfunction can also affect cooling.
• Gas leak – If the AC gas leaks, cooling is completely affected. This is why refilling the gas often becomes necessary.
Cost of AC Gas Refill
A 1.5-ton split AC usually requires 1.5 to 2 kilograms of gas. Based on this, you can expect to spend ₹2000 to ₹3000.
• R22 gas: ₹400-₹600 per 100 grams
• R410A gas: ₹500-₹700 per 100 grams
• R32 gas: ₹600-₹800 per 100 grams
Can Technicians Inflate Your Costs?
• Local technicians may recommend gas refills unnecessarily or charge more than the actual price. Therefore, keep these things in mind:
• Always get a leak detection: Before refilling the gas, check where the leak was and ensure the point has been repaired.
• Ask for a bill and gas details: Ask the technician for details of the type and quantity of gas filled.
• Use reputable brands or service providers: Getting service from a company-authorized service center is safer than using a local technician.
When Should You Refill the Gas?
AC gas typically lasts for years if there is no leakage. If your AC is cooling properly, there is no need for a gas refill. However, if there's a gas leak, it's crucial to fix it immediately; otherwise, the compressor may be affected, increasing repair costs. If your AC is not cooling properly, get it serviced first.
If the problem persists, have a trusted technician check the gas. Only refill the gas if necessary, and make sure you know the type and quantity of gas being used. Doing this will not only save you money but also prevent you from being cheated.
