AC Not Cooling Properly? Check These 5 Things Before Paying for Gas Refill, Say Experts
AC Not Cooling Properly? Check These 5 Things Before Paying for Gas Refill, Say Experts
Is your AC not cooling properly this summer? Before trusting a mechanic who says the gas is over, check these 5 important signs to avoid unnecessary expenses and AC repair scams.
With summer temperatures rising, air conditioners are running longer than usual in households across India. However, many people complain that their AC is not cooling properly even after running continuously for hours. In such cases, mechanics often claim that the AC gas has finished and needs refilling. But experts say this may not always be true, and consumers should verify a few things before spending money on repairs.
According to technicians, reduced cooling can happen due to several reasons besides low refrigerant gas. Homeowners are advised to inspect basic warning signs before agreeing to an expensive gas refill.
One of the first signs of low gas pressure is when the AC blows only normal or slightly cool air despite running continuously. Another major indicator is ice formation on the indoor unit coils, especially when the filters are already clean.
Experts also say that if the thin pipe connected to the outdoor unit becomes unusually cold or develops ice, it may indicate low refrigerant pressure. Frequent on-and-off cycling of the compressor, along with rising electricity bills and poor cooling performance, can also point towards gas-related issues.
However, consumers are being warned against blindly trusting mechanics who immediately suggest refilling gas without proper inspection.
Experts recommend asking the technician to connect a pressure gauge meter and show live pressure readings before any refill is done. If the mechanic talks about refilling gas without checking for leaks or measuring pressure levels, customers should remain cautious as it may lead to unnecessary expenses.
Consumers are also advised to ask where the gas leak is occurring and whether the leak will be repaired before refilling the refrigerant. According to AC professionals, proper repair procedures involve first locating and fixing the leak, vacuuming the system to remove moisture and air, and then filling the exact amount of refrigerant using electronic measuring equipment.
Technicians say simply topping up gas without vacuuming or leak repair can reduce both cooling efficiency and the lifespan of the air conditioner.
Another common misconception among consumers is that AC gas expires over time. Experts clarify that refrigerant gas circulates continuously inside a sealed system and does not have an expiry date. If there are no leaks in the pipes or coils, the same gas can function efficiently for 10 to 15 years or even longer.
They further explain that if an AC requires gas refilling every one or two years, it usually means there is a leak somewhere in the system, possibly in the pipes, coils or joints. Improper gas charging methods can also create recurring problems.
Experts advise consumers to focus on proper leak detection and repairs instead of repeatedly refilling gas, which may only offer temporary relief while increasing long-term maintenance costs.
