AC Refrigerant Recharge
in Surprise, AZ

Bradford charges $150 per pound for R-22 (Freon) and $95 per pound for R-410A. The amount needed depends on how much refrigerant has been lost and your system's capacity. However, Bradford always locates and repairs the leak before recharging — adding refrigerant to a leaking system is a temporary fix that wastes money and harms the environment.

R-22 (Freon) is the older refrigerant used in AC systems manufactured before approximately 2010. It was phased out under EPA regulations and is no longer produced in the US — remaining supplies are reclaimed and recycled, which is why R-22 costs significantly more. R-410A is the modern refrigerant used in systems manufactured from roughly 2010 onward. It is more efficient and environmentally friendlier than R-22. If your system uses R-22, Bradford can discuss whether a recharge makes economic sense versus replacing the system with a modern R-410A unit.

Refrigerant does not get 'used up' — a properly sealed system should hold its charge indefinitely. If your system is low on refrigerant, it means there is a leak somewhere in the system. Common leak locations include the evaporator coil (inside), the condenser coil (outside), the service valves, or the refrigerant line connections. Bradford locates the leak with electronic leak detection before adding refrigerant.

Bradford does not recommend this, and here's why: the leak will continue, the refrigerant will escape again, and you'll pay for another recharge in a few months. Worse, low refrigerant causes the compressor to work harder and run hotter, shortening its life. The EPA also requires that leaks above a certain threshold be repaired. Bradford's process is always: find the leak, fix it, then recharge to the correct level.

Common symptoms include: (1) the AC runs but rooms don't cool down even on mild days, (2) ice forming on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil, (3) the outdoor unit is running but the air from vents is barely cool, (4) higher-than-normal electric bills, and (5) a hissing or bubbling sound near the refrigerant lines — a sign of an active leak.

The recharge itself takes 30–60 minutes. Leak detection and repair can add 1–3 hours depending on where the leak is located. Bradford carries electronic leak detectors and UV dye on every service vehicle to locate leaks quickly.

Yes. Bradford Heating & Cooling holds Arizona ROC License #353859 and EPA Section 608 certification, which is required by federal law to purchase and handle refrigerants. All Bradford technicians are EPA 608 certified.

This depends on the size of the leak and the age of your system. If the system is over 12–15 years old and has a significant leak, replacement with a modern R-410A system often makes more financial sense — you'll get better efficiency, lower refrigerant costs, and a new warranty. If the system is newer and the leak is minor and repairable, a recharge can extend its life. Bradford will give you an honest assessment of both options.