Refrigerant Recharge
Refrigerant Recharge | Air Conditioning | Heating and Air Conditioning | Hixson
When Hixson’s heat turns relentless, HEP’s refrigerant recharge service brings back the cool in a hurry. Our NATE-certified technicians arrive with precision gauges and EPA-approved refrigerants, diagnose low-charge symptoms on the spot, and restore balanced pressures that protect your compressor and lower energy costs. You’ll feel the difference in minutes—crisper airflow, faster temperature drops, and quieter cycles.
From lukewarm vents to unexpected ice on your coils, we’ve seen every sign of refrigerant loss and know exactly how to fix it. Count on transparent, upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency availability, and a satisfaction guarantee that keeps your air conditioning reliable all season long.
FAQs
What are the most common signs my air conditioner needs a refrigerant recharge?
In Hixson’s humid summers, low refrigerant often shows up as weak airflow or air that never cools below room temperature, ice forming on the outdoor or indoor coils, hissing or bubbling noises (indicating a leak), or unexpectedly high electric bills. If your thermostat is set correctly but your home still feels muggy or warm, have a certified technician test the refrigerant level before the compressor suffers damage.
How is a refrigerant recharge performed and how long does it take?
A licensed EPA-certified technician will first recover any remaining refrigerant, pressure-test the system for leaks, repair those leaks, evacuate (vacuum) the lines to remove moisture, and then weigh in the precise factory-specified amount of refrigerant. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours for most residential units in Hixson, but larger systems or hard-to-reach leaks can extend the visit. A proper recharge is always measured by weight—not “topping off” by pressure alone—to protect your compressor and warranty.
Is it still legal or advisable to recharge an older R-22 (Freon) system?
Beginning January 1, 2020, production and import of new R-22 refrigerant were banned in the U.S. Only reclaimed or recycled R-22 is available, and prices keep rising. While we can still service existing R-22 equipment, you should compare the cost of repeat recharges to the long-term benefits of upgrading to an R-410A or R-32 system. Newer refrigerants provide better efficiency, lower electricity bills, and fewer environmental impacts. We’re happy to give you a side-by-side cost analysis for repair vs. replacement.
What does a refrigerant recharge cost in the Hixson area?
Prices vary with refrigerant type (R-410A is less expensive than reclaimed R-22), the amount needed, leak-repair labor, and system size. Typical residential recharges in Hixson run $200–$450 for R-410A and $500+ for R-22, including minor leak sealing. Extensive leak repairs or coil replacements can add hundreds more. We always provide a written quote after diagnosing your system so there are no surprises.
Will adding refrigerant fix my AC, or do I have to repair the leak first?
Refrigerant is not consumed like fuel—if your level is low, there’s a leak. Simply adding refrigerant without repairing the leak is a temporary patch that can harm the environment and lead to compressor failure. Our technicians use electronic leak detectors, UV dye, or nitrogen pressure testing to find and repair leaks before recharging, ensuring your system runs efficiently and complies with EPA regulations.
How often should my HVAC refrigerant levels be checked or recharged?
A properly sealed system should never need routine recharging. During an annual spring tune-up, we measure refrigerant pressure, superheat, and subcool to confirm charge accuracy. If levels drop between visits, you likely have a leak that needs immediate attention. Regular maintenance—cleaning coils, replacing filters, and ensuring good airflow—also helps keep pressures stable and reduces the risk of leaks.