An air conditioner does not use up refrigerant – it circulates in a closed circuit. If the level falls, that means it is leaking somewhere. Topping up alone is therefore not enough: the leak has to be found and fixed first, otherwise the problem will recur.
How to recognise a lack of refrigerant
- the air conditioner gradually cools less well,
- ice forms on the pipes or indoor unit,
- the unit runs longer before reaching the temperature,
- an error code appears on the display.
These symptoms can also have other causes – for example clogged filters. See the article Air conditioner not cooling: the most common causes and what to do.
Why refrigerant leaks
- leaking joints from poor-quality installation,
- mechanical damage to the pipes,
- vibration and wear after years of operation.
A quality installation with a leak test of the circuit significantly reduces the risk of a leak – The most common air conditioner installation mistakes and how to avoid them.
How the repair works
- diagnosis and locating the leak,
- repairing the leak,
- checking the circuit for leaks,
- filling with the amount and type of refrigerant specified by the manufacturer,
- checking the operating values.
Only an authorised technician may work with refrigerant
Refrigerants are regulated substances. Under the regulations, they may only be handled by persons holding the relevant certificate, and refrigerant must not be released into the air. So do not interfere with the refrigerant circuit yourself.
Air conditioner service
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, book a service. Read more on the Air conditioner service page.
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