Do New AC Units Come With Refrigerant?

When you’re shopping for a new air conditioning system, you might wonder about the essential components that make cooling possible. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “Do new AC units come with refrigerant?” Understanding what to expect with your new AC purchase can help you plan for installation and ongoing maintenance costs.

Whether you’re working with an HVAC contractor in High Point, NC, or handling the purchase yourself, knowing about refrigerant inclusion is crucial for making informed decisions. In this guide, Automated Comfort Systems explains that new AC units come with refrigerant and what you should know about different systems.

New AC Systems in High Point Include Factory-Charged Refrigerant

So, do new AC units come with refrigerant?

Most new air conditioning units do come with a refrigerant, but the specifics depend on the type of system. Split system air conditioners, the most popular choice for homes in High Point, arrive as factory-charged AC systems with precise refrigerant levels. Understanding what comes with your new system helps you prepare for installation.

An air conditioner with pre-charged refrigerant offers several advantages for homeowners:

• Precise refrigerant levels. Manufacturers calculate the exact amount of refrigerant needed for optimal performance based on the unit’s size and specifications.
• Ready for installation. The pre-charging process ensures that the refrigerant in new AC units meets the exact requirements for efficient cooling.
• Quality assurance. Factory charging eliminates potential errors that could occur during field charging.

The refrigerant serves as the heat transfer agent that enables air conditioning. Without proper refrigerant levels, your air conditioner cannot provide adequate cooling, making it an essential component that manufacturers include from the factory.

Understanding Different AC Types and the Refrigerant They Include

Do new AC units come with refrigerant? While you can expect your new system to have refrigerant, it may not always come pre-filled from the factory. Some systems require HVAC technicians to add refrigerant during the installation process.

Split systems come pre-charged with refrigerant and are ready to operate immediately after installation. These systems consist of an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor evaporator unit, connected by refrigerant lines. Window units also come pre-charged with refrigerant for easy installation.

Package units, commonly used in commercial applications, typically do not include refrigerant when they arrive from the factory. Professional technicians add refrigerant as part of the installation process.

New air conditioners use environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-410A (Puron) or advanced formulations like R-454B. These newer refrigerants offer improved efficiency while adhering to refrigerant safety guidelines established by environmental agencies — only units made before 2015 use R-22 (Freon). 

Installing AC With Refrigerant Requires Professional Expertise From High Point HVAC Technicians

For most High Point homeowners, the answer to “Do new AC units include refrigerant?” is yes. However, even air conditioners with factory-installed refrigerant require proper installation for optimal performance. 

Installing an AC system with refrigerant involves connecting the refrigerant lines, checking for leaks, and ensuring the system operates at the correct pressure levels. Professional installation ensures safe operation.

Several factors make professional installation essential for air conditioners.

Safety Requirements

Professional technicians have the tools and training to handle these substances safely, especially since newer refrigerants can be more flammable than older formulations.

System Verification 

During installation, technicians verify that the refrigerant levels in new air conditioners match the manufacturer’s specifications.

Leak Prevention

High Point HVAC technicians inspect all connections to prevent leaks that can reduce cooling efficiency and require costly repairs.

Attempting DIY installation can lead to refrigerant loss, system damage, or safety hazards, making professional installation essential for warranty protection and optimal performance. Even factory-charged systems may require refrigerant adjustments based on line length and specific installation details. 

This might beg the question, “Why do AC units include refrigerant?” if you can’t install them yourself. HVAC professionals ensure proper calibration, giving you confidence in the system’s performance and longevity.