Air Conditioning Re-gassing Guide

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22/07/25, 21:57
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Air Conditioning Re-gassing Guide
Scope of Works
Attend site, verify F-Gas logbook and isolate electrics.
Recover any remaining refrigerant, weigh charge and leak-test with nitrogen or electronic sniffer.
Repair minor flare joints or Schrader cores if required.
Evacuate system to deep vacuum, recharge with the correct weight of R32, R410A or R454B.
Check superheat/sub-cool, run performance test and clear fault codes.
Issue waste-transfer paperwork, update logbook and affix service sticker.
Typical Cost (VAT incl.)
Charge type | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
Call-out / minimum | 60 | 180 | Freeztech arrival fee £60 freeztech.com; weekday call-out £130–£180 Checkatrade |
Labour per hour | 30 | 60 | AC engineer hourly rate Checkatrade |
Materials (refrigerant, seals) | 35 | 130 | Typical R32/R410A top-up 0.5–2 kg Checkatrade |
Disposal (recovered gas, filters) | 20 | 60 | Licensed waste-carrier fees |
Extras (weekend, major leak trace, roof access) | 50 | 200 | Weekend surcharge up to £220 Checkatrade |
TOTAL (most jobs come in here) | 180 | 400 | Single split-unit recharge after minor leak repair |
Time on Site
Typical: 1 – 2 hours for a straightforward recovery, vacuum and recharge.
Can extend if: outdoor condenser on roof/balcony, stubborn leak detection, system holds more than 2 kg refrigerant, or multiple indoor heads need purging.
Questions to Ask Your Tradie
Are you F-Gas certified and will my logbook be updated after the recharge?
Does the price include leak testing, refrigerant, labour and VAT?
What refrigerant type and weight will you charge, and is it compatible with my unit?
How long is your workmanship guarantee on the leak repair and re-gas?
Do you carry common spares (Schrader valves, flare nuts) to avoid a second visit?
What extra cost applies if you find a larger leak or failed component?
Will you record before-and-after efficiency readings so I can track running costs?
How to Avoid Surprises
Reserve parking close to both indoor and outdoor units for vacuum pump and cylinders.
Ensure safe ladder or roof access is arranged in advance.
Tell the engineer if the system is still under manufacturer warranty (parts may be free).
Have the fused spur or MCB location ready so power can be isolated quickly.
Alert the tradie to pets, sensitive smoke alarms or nearby occupants who may be affected by testing gases.
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