If the AC runs but barely cools, ask what needs checking before agreeing to a refrigerant top-up. The technician needs to establish the cause, including whether refrigerant has leaked. When booking, explain the symptoms and ask what the diagnostic visit covers so you know what you're paying for.
Give the technician something to go on
Send model-plate photos, any error code and a description of what happens. Does it start, move air, cool at all or stop after a few minutes? Is one unit affected or the whole system? Show any visible water path without taking equipment apart.
Check the mode and setpoint and clean user-accessible filters according to the manual. Those are sensible owner checks. Opening electrics, dismantling refrigerant equipment or repeatedly resetting a fault isn't.
Ask for an explanation of any refrigerant charge
A sealed system shouldn't need refrigerant treated as an annual consumable. If the recommendation is a charge, ask what indicates a leak, what investigation is proposed and what repair is needed. That matters particularly if the same unit has been topped up before.
Use a suitably enabled company for thermal and refrigerant work. Stop the unit if there is burning, serious leaking or abnormal mechanical noise, and tell the company when booking.
Get the result in writing
The invoice should explain the fault, parts or refrigerant used, leak action where relevant and whether the system ran correctly afterwards. If a replacement is recommended, ask why repair is unsuitable and what the complete replacement price covers.
A hot afternoon is a difficult time to weigh an expensive decision. Make the immediate situation safe, then compare the options if you have time.
Before you go ahead
- Model plates photographed
- Symptoms and error recorded
- Safe filter and setting checks completed
- Company authority checked
- Diagnosis and invoice requested
Common questions
Why is water dripping from the indoor unit?
Possible causes include drainage blockage, installation problems, dirt or operating conditions. Switch it off if water threatens electrics or finishes and arrange inspection.
Should refrigerant be topped up every year?
A sealed system should not be treated as a routine consumable top-up. Ask the technician to explain any leak, repair and charge.
Sources and further reading
Official information checked on 12 October 2026. Rules and procedures can change; verify the live source for your exact circumstances.