How to Add Refrigerant to Your AC

Categories: Air Conditioning

HVAC technician using a refrigerant gauge to check Freon levels in an air conditioner, showing how to add refrigerant to AC, AC not blowing cold air, AC low on Freon, and AC repair services by Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service. Call us today for help with how to add refrigerant to ac, AC refrigerant refill, AC Freon recharge, add Freon to air conditioner, air conditioner not cooling, AC low on refrigerant, HVAC refrigerant service, Freon leak repair, AC recharge near me, HVAC recharge service near me, Lochard HVAC services, air conditioning repair near me, residential AC repair, HVAC technician near me, Freon level check, emergency AC repair, central air not cooling, AC not blowing cold air, HVAC maintenance service, air conditioner refrigerant issues, cooling system recharge, HVAC repair Troy OH, AC tune-up near me, Lochard HVAC Plumbing and Service.

Understanding Refrigerant and Its Role

When your air conditioner isn’t cooling the way it should, low refrigerant is often the culprit. If you’ve been Googling “how to add refrigerant to AC,” you’re not alone. It’s a common issue that can leave homes uncomfortably warm during Ohio’s hot summer months. However, recharging refrigerant isn’t a typical DIY job—and doing it wrong can cause major damage.

At Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service, we specialize in keeping your AC system running efficiently and safely across Troy, Sidney, Piqua, Bellefontaine, Celina, and Tipp City. Below, we break down why your AC might need refrigerant, what the process involves, and why a licensed HVAC technician should handle it.

What Does Refrigerant Do?

Refrigerant is the chemical responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. When your system runs low, it can’t cool properly—leading to higher energy bills, short cycling, and poor indoor comfort. If you’re hearing your AC run but not feeling the cold air, you might need a refrigerant recharge.

Signs Your AC Might Be Low on Refrigerant

  • Your home isn’t cooling evenly or at all

  • Warm air is coming out of the vents

  • You notice ice on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil

  • You hear a hissing or bubbling noise (which could indicate a leak)

  • Your energy bills are rising unexpectedly

Can You Add Refrigerant to Your AC Yourself?

Technically, refrigerant can be added, but only by a certified HVAC technician. It’s not a matter of just pouring in coolant. The system needs to be checked for leaks, evacuated, and recharged precisely to manufacturer specifications. Adding too much or too little can lead to compressor damage and system failure.

Improper handling can also be harmful to the environment and may even violate federal regulations. That’s why we always recommend scheduling a professional AC repair or cooling service with our trained team.

Our Professional Recharge Process

At Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service, here’s what we do when your system needs refrigerant:

  1. Full System Inspection – We identify any potential refrigerant leaks or system issues.

  2. Leak Repair – If necessary, we seal the leak before any recharging happens.

  3. Evacuation – We remove all remaining refrigerant and moisture from the lines.

  4. Precise Recharge – We add the exact amount of refrigerant your unit needs.

  5. Performance Testing – We test the AC to make sure it’s cooling efficiently.

Serving Your Area

We proudly provide professional AC services in:

Need a Recharge? We’ve Got You Covered

If your AC isn’t cooling properly and you suspect low refrigerant, don’t try to fix it yourself. Contact Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service for fast, reliable air conditioning service done right.

FAQs

Can I add my own refrigerant to my AC?

Adding refrigerant to your air conditioner yourself is not recommended. It requires specialized tools, proper safety precautions, and EPA certification. Overcharging or undercharging refrigerant can damage your system and even void your manufacturer’s warranty. If you’re searching “how to add refrigerant to AC,” it’s a sign to call a licensed HVAC professional who can inspect, diagnose, and recharge your system safely.

How do I know if my AC is low on Freon?

Common signs your AC is low on Freon include warm air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, ice buildup on refrigerant lines, or higher-than-usual energy bills. You might also hear a hissing sound near the unit, which could indicate a refrigerant leak. A proper diagnosis from a certified technician is the only way to confirm low refrigerant and identify the source of the issue.

How many cans of Freon does it take to recharge an air conditioner?

The number of refrigerant cans or pounds needed depends on your AC unit’s size, system type, and how much refrigerant has leaked. Residential units typically hold between 2 to 10 pounds, but adding refrigerant without knowing the system specifications can cause serious damage. An HVAC technician will use gauges to determine the exact amount needed.

How do I fix low refrigerant in my AC unit?

To fix low refrigerant in your AC, the system first needs to be inspected for leaks. Simply adding Freon won’t resolve the issue if there’s an underlying leak. After repairing any leaks, the system should be evacuated and recharged with the correct type and amount of refrigerant, which is something only a certified HVAC technician should handle.

Is it bad to run AC with low refrigerant?

Yes, running your air conditioner with low refrigerant can put excessive strain on the compressor and other components, leading to major AC system damage and reduced efficiency. It can also cause your system to freeze up or overheat. If your AC is running but not cooling, it’s best to shut it off and call for professional AC service.

Need help with low refrigerant or AC repairs? Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service offers trusted cooling services in Troy, Sidney, Piqua, Casstown, Kettlersville, and nearby areas—backed by decades of experience and quality you can count on.