How to Check Refrigerant Levels in Your AC

If your air conditioner is blowing warm air and working harder than a Canadian at a July cottage BBQ, you might have a refrigerant problem. But before you grab a wrench and a canister of “Freon” like it’s a DIY YouTube project, hold up—because in Ontario, checking refrigerant is not a casual weekend task. It’s a regulated job that, if done wrong, could cost you big time (and not just in energy bills). 

In this guide, we’ll break down how to check refrigerant levels in your AC system, how to spot the early warning signs, and why modern refrigerants are changing the HVAC game in Canada. 

☁️ What Is Refrigerant and Why Should You Care? 

Refrigerant (commonly referred to as Freon, though that’s a brand name) is the magic potion inside your air conditioner or heat pump that keeps your home cool. It absorbs heat from inside and releases it outside—like the opposite of a winter toque. 

Without enough refrigerant, your AC can’t do its job efficiently. Worse, running your system on low refrigerant can lead to compressor damage, sky-high energy bills, and system failure. 

And here’s the kicker: refrigerant doesn’t get “used up.” If it’s low, there’s a leak—and that needs professional attention. 

🚩 7 Signs Your AC Might Be Low on Refrigerant 

Before we talk tools and technicians, let’s see if your AC is screaming for help: 

1. Warm Air from Vents
   AC running but it feels like you’re getting a warm breeze? That’s a red flag. 
2. Weak Airflow
   Even if it’s cool, low refrigerant can cause low pressure = weak airflow. 
3. Ice on the Evaporator Coil or Copper Lines
   Yes, low refrigerant can cause freezing. Irony, eh? 
4. Longer Cooling Cycles
   If your system runs endlessly without ever quite hitting the target temp, refrigerant may be the culprit. 
5. Higher Energy Bills
   AC working harder = more electricity = wallet crying. 
6. Hissing or Bubbling Noises
   These sounds around your outdoor unit often mean refrigerant is leaking out. 
7. Short-Cycling
   When the AC turns on and off rapidly, it’s not showing off. It’s struggling. 

🧪 Can You Check Refrigerant Levels Yourself? 

Technically? Nope.
Legally? Still nope.
In Ontario (and the rest of Canada), refrigerants are regulated due to their environmental impact. Only certified HVAC technicians can legally handle them. 

But here’s what you can do: 

• Observe symptoms listed above. 
• Inspect for frost on refrigerant lines. 
• Listen for leaks. 
• Call LG Home Comfort if something feels off (we’ll be there faster than you can say “R-410A is being phased out”). 

🔧 How Technicians Check Refrigerant Levels (The Safe & Legal Way) 

Here’s what a pro from LG Home Comfort will do when checking refrigerant in your AC: 

1. Power Down the System
   Safety first. Always. 

2. Attach Manifold Gauges
   These specialized gauges connect to the low- and high-pressure ports on your unit. 

3. Compare Readings to Manufacturer Specs
   The tech will compare your system’s pressure to factory-recommended levels, adjusting for outdoor temperature. 

4. Check Superheat & Subcooling
   Advanced techniques to get precise refrigerant charge readings. Superheat = vapor temp above boiling point; Subcooling = how much the liquid is cooled below condensation. 

5. Inspect for Leaks
   If the system’s low, a certified tech uses UV dye or electronic leak detectors to pinpoint the problem. 

6. Fix the Leak & Recharge (if needed)
   Only after sealing the leak will the system be refilled—no shortcuts here. 

💸 What If Your System Uses R-22 or R-410A? 

Here’s the part many Ontarians don’t know: older refrigerants are being phased out. Yes, even the “safe” one (R-410A) is getting the boot. 

🔥 R-22 (aka Freon): 

• Banned in Canada for production/import since 2020 
• Illegal to use after 2030 
• Costs $100–$250 per pound (if you can even find it) 
• Bad for the ozone and your wallet 

🧊 R-410A: 

• Better than R-22, but still has a high global warming potential (GWP) 
• Being phased out by 2025–2036 in Canada 
• Will become expensive and rare 

🌱 The Cool (Eco-Friendly) Kids on the Block 

Modern HVAC systems—including those from LG Home Comfort—use greener refrigerants that are safer for the planet and your bills: 

• R-32 – 67% lower GWP than R-410A. Cools faster, uses less energy. 
• R-454B – Ultra-low GWP. Becoming the new standard. 
• R-466A – Safe, non-flammable, and perfect for commercial setups. 

We don’t just install these—we specialize in them. 

💡 What Should You Do If Your Refrigerant Is Low? 

If your AC is low on refrigerant, don’t top it off yourself. Here’s your action plan: 

✅ Step 1: Book a Professional Inspection : Let an LG Home Comfort technician diagnose the issue properly.  

✅ Step 2: Fix the Leak First : Refrigerant doesn’t evaporate like your motivation in February. If it’s low, there’s a leak. 

✅ Step 3: Recharge with the Correct Refrigerant : No overcharging. No mixing. Just factory-spec accuracy. 

✅ Step 4: Consider an Upgrade (If Needed) : If you’re still clinging to an R-22 or R-410A unit, we’ll help you switch to a high-efficiency, eco-smart system—often with rebates and incentives. 

🛠️ Pro Maintenance = No Surprises 

Want to avoid refrigerant issues entirely? Sign up for regular HVAC maintenance: 

• Seasonal inspections 
• Leak detection 
• Refrigerant pressure checks 
• Filter replacement 
• Efficiency testing
• Because nothing says “summer panic” like a dead AC in July. 

📞 Need Help? We’re Just a Call Away 

If your AC is acting strange, don’t wait for it to completely give up. At LG Home Comfort, we’re Ontario’s go-to experts in: 

• Refrigerant diagnostics 
• R-22 system replacement 
• R-410A upgrade planning 
• Eco-friendly installations (R-32, R-454B) 
• Emergency cooling solutions (yes, even weekends!) 

We keep things cool, compliant, and cost-effective—because your comfort shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. 

🧊 Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, Stay Legal 

Understanding how to check refrigerant levels in your AC system isn’t just about saving money. It’s about protecting your home, your health, and the environment. And in Ontario, it’s also about following the rules. 

So remember:
DIY refrigerant checks? Hard no.
Recognizing the signs and calling the pros? Big yes. 

FAQs 

FAQ 1: How do I know if my AC is low on refrigerant?
Answer:
Common signs your AC is low on refrigerant include weak airflow, warm air from vents, ice buildup on refrigerant lines, longer cooling cycles, and higher energy bills. If you hear hissing or bubbling sounds near the outdoor unit, you may also have a refrigerant leak. These symptoms are key indicators of low Freon or refrigerant levels in air conditioners. 

FAQ 2: Can I check my AC’s refrigerant levels myself in Ontario?
Answer:
No, you cannot legally check refrigerant levels yourself in Ontario. Due to environmental regulations, only certified HVAC technicians can handle or assess refrigerant. DIY refrigerant checks are unsafe, illegal, and could damage your air conditioner or result in fines. 

FAQ 3: What happens if I run my air conditioner with low refrigerant?
Answer:
Running your AC with low refrigerant can cause the compressor to overheat, reduce energy efficiency, and lead to expensive repairs. Your system may short-cycle, fail to cool properly, or build up ice on coils. Ignoring low refrigerant can significantly reduce the lifespan of your HVAC system. 

FAQ 4: How much does it cost to recharge AC refrigerant in Canada?
Answer:
Recharging refrigerant in Canada typically costs between $150 and $500, depending on the type of refrigerant (e.g., R-22 or R-410A) and the amount needed. R-22 is extremely expensive due to its phase-out, often costing $100–$250 per pound. Prices also include leak detection and system diagnostics by licensed HVAC technicians. 

FAQ 5: What refrigerants are replacing R-22 and R-410A in Canada?
Answer:
Eco-friendly refrigerants like R-32, R-454B, and R-466A are replacing outdated options like R-22 and R-410A in Canada. These alternatives have a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), are more energy efficient, and are better for the environment. LG Home Comfort uses only modern, approved refrigerants in all new installations. 

FAQ 6: How often should refrigerant levels be checked in an AC system?
Answer:
Refrigerant levels in a properly sealed AC system shouldn’t need regular refilling. However, it’s recommended to have your HVAC system professionally inspected annually to check for leaks, pressure imbalances, and overall performance. Scheduled AC maintenance helps prevent refrigerant issues before they lead to costly breakdowns. 

📍 Serving All of Ontario: 

From Toronto to Barrie, Mississauga to Kitchener, LG Home Comfort is here to help you breathe easy, save money, and stay cool.