Every summer, thousands of households in Islamabad and Rawalpindi call for AC gas filling. What most don't know is that refrigerant doesn't run out like car fuel — it stays in a closed system indefinitely unless there's a leak. If your AC needs gas every year, you have a leak, not a refill schedule.
The Right Way to Do Gas Filling
A professional gas filling service must always start with a leak test. AF Tech Fix uses both electronic leak detectors (sensitive to 5 PPM) and soap-bubble inspection on all joints and flare connections. Only after confirming and repairing any leaks should refrigerant be added. Skipping the leak test means you'll be back to the same problem in 6 to 12 months.
R-22, R-410A, or R-32: Which Gas Does Your AC Use?
R-22 (Freon) is found in older ACs made before 2015. It is being phased out globally due to ozone depletion, and its price in Pakistan has tripled in 5 years. R-410A is used in most modern ACs sold between 2012 and 2022. It is a blend that cannot be added incrementally — systems must be fully evacuated and recharged if contaminated. R-32 is the latest refrigerant used in new inverter ACs from 2020 onwards. It has 68% lower global warming potential than R-410A and slightly higher efficiency. Never mix refrigerants — this destroys compressors.
Digital Scale Charging: Why It Matters
The correct method of charging refrigerant is by weight on a calibrated digital scale to the manufacturer's exact gram specification printed on the nameplate. The common practice of charging by gauges until "suction pressure looks right" is inaccurate and frequently results in overcharging. Overcharging raises head pressure, increases compressor wear, and reduces cooling capacity — the opposite of the intended result.
How Much Does Gas Filling Cost in Islamabad?
A proper R-410A gas fill for a 1.5-ton unit typically costs between Rs 4,000 and Rs 7,000 in Islamabad, including leak testing and performance verification. Be wary of Rs 1,500 gas fill offers — they typically add gas without testing or weighing, guaranteeing repeat visits. AF Tech Fix provides transparent, written quotes before any work begins. Call 0311 4714444 for same-day service across Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
