“Your gas is low, need to top up.” If you’ve had your aircon serviced in Singapore, you’ve probably heard that line. Sometimes it’s true. Sometimes it’s the easiest add-on to sell. Here’s how to tell the difference.
How aircon gas actually works
The refrigerant in your aircon runs in a closed loop. It isn’t burned or used up like petrol in a car. So in a healthy system, the gas level shouldn’t drop over time.
If it is low, there’s usually a reason: a small leak at a joint or pipe, or a problem from installation.
Signs your gas might genuinely be low
- The aircon runs but the air is only lukewarm, even after cleaning
- Ice forming on the copper pipes
- The unit takes much longer to cool the room
- A hissing sound near the pipes
But here’s the thing: dirty coils, a clogged blower and blocked filters can cause most of the same symptoms. That’s why cleaning should come first.
How a proper check works
A technician connects a gauge to the outdoor unit and reads the pressure. That number tells you whether the gas is low. No gauge, no proof.
If it does need gas
We top up the right type for your unit: R22, R32 or R410A. During a servicing visit, a top-up is $38 (usual price $98). If it keeps dropping, there’s a leak, and we’ll talk you through a leak check rather than topping up again and again.
Questions to ask any technician
- Can you show me the pressure reading?
- Why do you think it’s low?
- If it’s a leak, where?
A good technician will happily answer all three.
A gas check comes free with our aircon servicing in Singapore.
Gas keeps running low? There’s usually a leak behind it. See aircon repair for leak checks and fixes.
Aircon not cold? WhatsApp us for a check. A gas check comes free with our servicing. More on our gas top-up page.