If cool air from the vents feels weak or warmer than usual, it’s probably time to check the cooling fluid levels. Weak performance during heatwaves, especially in older units, often points to a drop in this chemical compound. It doesn’t get used up like fuel, so a low level usually means there’s a leak. That’s not something to ignore – letting it run low for too long could damage the compressor, and that’s a costly fix.
There’s also the matter of frost on the copper lines or indoor coil. It looks odd, especially during warm months, and it’s usually not a good sign. Add that to strange hissing or bubbling sounds and you’ve got a strong case for scheduling a technician. Most homeowners notice their energy bills creeping up first, though. The system has to work harder – and longer – when there’s not enough of that coolant to do the job properly.
Maybe it’s tempting to just recharge it yourself with one of those kits from a hardware store. But here’s the thing: the wrong type or amount can throw the whole system off balance. And, legally, only certified pros can handle the stuff. It’s not just about safety – it’s also about making sure the work holds up through the next heat wave.
Some newer models have sealed systems and shouldn’t lose any fluid at all under normal conditions. If one of those is low, something’s wrong. Older models are more prone to gradual leaks, especially if maintenance has been irregular. In either case, getting it looked at sooner rather than later saves money in the long run. Not to mention the frustration of poor airflow when you need it most.
How to Identify Signs of Low Refrigerant in Your Calgary AC Unit
Start with the airflow. If the air coming out of the vents feels weak or noticeably warmer than it should be – even with the thermostat set low – the cooling agent might be below normal levels. Not always, but it’s a strong possibility. It’s especially true if the temperature drop indoors takes much longer than usual.
Next, check the copper lines. If they’re coated in frost or even a thin layer of ice, that’s a red flag. The system needs a stable pressure to function properly, and freezing on the lines usually means it’s struggling. Some people might think that colder equals better, but in this case, it’s the opposite – the unit is overcompensating.
Hearing a hissing sound from the outdoor unit? That could mean a slow leak. Sometimes it’s faint, like air escaping from a balloon, but it doesn’t go away. Bubbling noises inside the coil area are another clue – those are often caused by fluid seeping out and mixing with air inside the line.
Check for moisture or visible oil spots near connectors or joints. These often go unnoticed, especially if the outdoor unit sits in a shaded spot or behind bushes. But where there’s oil, the cooling fluid is usually not far behind – leaking out slowly, maybe for months.
And then there’s the power bill. If the monthly cost creeps up without any real change in habits, it might not be the weather or a faulty thermostat. Systems running low on coolant tend to cycle more often, using more electricity without delivering much comfort. It’s frustrating – the room feels stuffy, the unit won’t quit, and still, it doesn’t cool the way it used to.
When and Why to Refill Refrigerant Instead of Repairing Your AC
If the system is under 10 years old and still in good shape otherwise, topping up the coolant can make more sense than replacing major parts. Especially if performance was fine until recently, and there’s no history of chronic leaks or breakdowns. One low reading, caught early, doesn’t always mean something major is wrong.
Short bursts of cooling followed by warm air – that’s one of those signs that often gets misread. Some assume the compressor is done for, but it’s not always the case. Sometimes it just needs more of that pressurized fluid to stabilize temperatures. If the system responds well after a recharge and holds pressure during testing, there’s usually no need for bigger repairs, at least not right away.
There’s a bit of a catch, though. If the drop in levels has happened more than once in a season, or even across two summers, that usually means there’s a slow leak. And then it becomes a question of cost – patch the hole and top up again, or replace the whole coil? That’s not always easy to answer. I’ve seen cases where a client opted for the refill three years in a row and still came out ahead.
Repairs make more sense when the problem keeps coming back, or when the unit struggles even after being topped up. At that point, the cost of multiple service calls adds up. But if it’s a first-time issue, or if the drop was minor, a refill might be all it needs. Some techs will pressure test right after to confirm there’s no obvious escape point – and if it holds steady, you’re probably good for the season.
Of course, not all fluids are interchangeable. Older systems sometimes use blends that are harder to find or now phased out. That can tip the decision toward repair or replacement. But for most units under a decade old, a recharge with the right compound is still on the table – and often the quicker, cheaper fix.
Where to Find Licensed Refrigerant Services in Calgary
Skip general handymen – look for certified HVAC contractors with Environment Canada-approved licensing. Only technicians with a valid ODS card (Ozone Depleting Substances certification) are legally allowed to handle sealed-system fluids in cooling units. Without that, it’s not just risky – it’s illegal. Most reputable service providers will list this openly on their websites or offer proof during scheduling.
How to check for certification
Start by searching for companies registered with the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). They maintain a list of qualified contractors. Alternatively, you can ask directly – any hesitation or vague answers are a bad sign. A certified tech should be able to explain what type of fluid the system uses and whether it’s still supported under current regulations.
It’s worth double-checking the brand and model of the unit before calling anyone. Some companies won’t service certain older types that use phased-out compounds. Others might charge a premium just to inspect them. Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd., for example, specializes in both modern systems and older R22 units, but not everyone does.
What a proper service visit includes
A licensed visit should involve more than just a top-up. The tech should inspect for leaks, test the pressure, and confirm the cooling cycle is functioning correctly. Some will also offer a dye test or electronic leak detection for a small extra fee – useful if this isn’t the first time it’s run low.
Price-wise, expect anywhere from $200 to $400 for a standard recharge, depending on the type and amount needed. If the technician offers a quote over the phone without asking for model details or past issues, be cautious. That usually means a rushed job or a flat-rate service with little actual inspection.
And one last thing – ask about warranty. Some companies will cover the fluid and labour for up to a year, others don’t at all. If it leaks again two months later, you’ll want to know who’s responsible. Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd., for instance, includes a 12-month coverage on qualifying work, which is fair and saves hassle if something goes wrong later.
Contact “Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd” For More Information:
Address
95 Beaconsfield Rise NW, Calgary, AB T3K 1X3
Phone
+1 403 720-0003
Hours of operation
Open 24 hours 7 days a week