How Much Does an AC Gas Refill Cost? — Prices & Guide
AC gas-refill prices vary mainly by unit size (HP) and refrigerant type. Shukshuk charges no commissions and sells no services — this guide is neutral and based on published price lists.
Price Ranges by Unit Size
• Up to 1 HP unit: ₪450 – ₪600 • 1.5–2 HP unit: ₪600 – ₪800 • Above 2 HP unit: ₪800 – ₪1,000+ These ranges apply to new refrigerant (R410A/R32). Get at least 3 quotes before deciding.
Old Gas (R22) — Significantly More Expensive
The older R22 refrigerant is being phased out and costs significantly more than new gas, with supply shrinking over time. Sources disagree on the exact multiplier, so no fixed number is given here — but expect a meaningful surcharge if your AC still runs on old R22.
What Affects the Price
• Unit size/HP — larger units need more refrigerant. • Gas type — new R410A/R32 vs. older, pricier R22. • Unit accessibility — a high or hard-to-reach unit raises the cost. • The actual quantity of refrigerant needed for a full refill.
Repeat Refills — the Problem Most People Don't Know About
Refrigerant gas does not run out under normal use. If an AC needs a refill, there is almost always a leak somewhere in the piping or coil. Industry sources note that some technicians prefer to simply do a repeat refill rather than diagnose and fix the leak, since a refill is a quicker, cheaper job than leak detection. The result: without fixing the leak, the new refill will run out again and you'll need another one soon.
How to Avoid a Cycle of Repeat Refills
☐ Explicitly ask whether a leak check was performed before refilling. ☐ Ask for the result in writing — was a leak found, and where. ☐ If the AC needs a second refill within less than a year, that's a clear sign of an unaddressed leak. ☐ Get a final price by phone before arrival, including the visit fee. ☐ Confirm the technician is certified for refrigerant work — a legal requirement.
FAQ
Why does my AC keep needing a gas refill?
Refrigerant does not run out under normal use — needing a refill almost always means there is a leak. Without fixing the leak, the new refill will also run out, and you'll end up refilling again and again.
How much more expensive is old R22 gas?
Significantly more than new gas (R410A/R32) — sources give different estimates for the exact multiplier, but all agree the gap is meaningful, and R22 supply is shrinking over time.
Can I refill AC gas myself?
No — refrigerant work is legally required to be performed by a certified AC technician. See the full AC-technician-cost guide for more.