Air conditioning is a technology that allows us to keep our homes cool and comfortable during the hot months. However, doubts often arise as to whether it is necessary to recharge a home air conditioner, either because of the belief that the “refrigerant gas runs out over time” or because of a perceived decrease in the power of the equipment. In this article, we will explain in detail whether it is really necessary to recharge a home air conditioner.

How air conditioning works

Before addressing the main question, it is important to understand how air conditioning works. Air conditioning systems in homes are designed with a closed refrigerant circuit. This refrigerant circulates continuously through the system, absorbing heat from the indoor environment and expelling it to the outside. The refrigeration cycle is based on the transformation of the refrigerant from a liquid to a gaseous state and vice versa, using compressors and evaporators.

Does the refrigerant gas run out?

A common belief is that refrigerant gas runs out over time and therefore needs to be recharged. However, this is incorrect. The refrigerant gas in the air conditioning system is not consumed or used up with normal use. The refrigerant simply circulates through the system, without fading or depleting. Unless there is a leak in the system, there is no need to recharge the refrigerant gas.

Refrigerant leaks

While refrigerant gas does not deplete by itself, leaks can occur in the air conditioning system. Leaks can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as worn gaskets, faulty connections or damaged piping. When there is a leak, the refrigerant level will gradually decrease, which will affect the performance of the air conditioner.

Signs of a refrigerant leak

If you experience any of the following symptoms, your air conditioning system may have a refrigerant leak and need a recharge:

• The air conditioner is not cooling properly: If you notice that the air coming out of the vents is not cool enough, it could indicate a low refrigerant level due to a leak.
• Prolonged operation: If the air conditioner runs continuously without cooling the room, there may be a refrigerant leak.
• Increased energy costs: A refrigerant leak can cause the air conditioning system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in increased energy costs.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to call a qualified technician to inspect and repair the leak. Remember that handling refrigerants without the proper experience and equipment can be dangerous.

How much does it cost to recharge the gas in an air conditioner?

The cost of recharging the air conditioner varies depending on the type of gas and the quantity required, as well as the cost of the technician’s service. In general, air conditioning recharging with R410a gas costs between 100 and 200 euros, approximately, including service. In the case of recharging with R32 refrigerant gas, the cost is slightly higher, around 340 euros.

In recent years, the F-gas tax has increased significantly, which has led to an increase in the price of refilling. Previously, the highest cost used to be the technician’s labour and travel, but nowadays, the price of gas and especially its tax are the main factors for the increase.

Some EU countries apply a special tax on the emission of fluorinated gases into the atmosphere, which are used as refrigerants in this type of system. Since 2015, this tax has been implemented and, in some cases, extended to the manufacture or import of pre-charged equipment and to the first charge of refrigerant in new installations. This could result in a 5-10% increase in costs.