❄️ Refrigerant Leak? What You Need to Know
A Simple Guide for Homeowners in Worcester & Middlesex Counties, MA
From the team at Professional HVAC
When your air conditioner or heat pump stops cooling, one of the possible causes is a refrigerant leak. We understand that this type of problem can feel stressful—especially when you don’t know what to expect.
At Professional HVAC, we believe in educating our customers first, so you can feel confident making the right decision for your home and your budget.
Here’s what you need to know.
🧊 What Is Refrigerant?
Refrigerant is the cooling fluid that runs through your AC or heat pump. It works in a closed loop to keep your home cool. It should never leak.
If you’re losing refrigerant, it means there’s a break somewhere in the system. That’s not normal—and it should be addressed.
🛠 What Are My Options?
There are 5 clear paths to take. Below, we’ve listed them from least to most expensive, along with pros, cons, and cost ranges.
1. 🚫 Do Nothing
Sometimes, choosing to wait is okay. You may not need cooling right away, or you might be deciding whether to replace the system.
No repair means no warranty
The leak will likely continue or get worse
💰 Typical Cost: $0–$250 (diagnostic only)
2. ➕ Add Refrigerant
If your system is low but not empty, we may be able to add refrigerant to get it running again.
This is only a short-term solution
Leaks get worse over time
We legally cannot refill known leaks repeatedly without repair
💡 No warranty is offered when leak repairs are skipped.
💰 Typical Cost: $400–$2,500 depending on refrigerant type and amount
3. 🧪 Add Leak Seal + Refrigerant
Some small leaks can be slowed or sealed with chemical additives.
Best for older systems where full repairs may not be ideal
No guarantee the seal will work
Better for the environment than just refilling
💰 Typical Cost: $400 (sealant) + the refrigerant refill cost of step 2
4. 🔍 Leak Search & Repair
This is a full, professional process to find and fix the leak the right way.
What it involves:
Recovering refrigerant
Pressurizing the system with inert gas
Watching for pressure drops and inspecting all pipes
Fixing or replacing leaking parts
Testing and recharging the system properly
✅ Includes a 1-year warranty on the repair and refrigerant
💰 Typical Cost: $800 for the search– $3200-$4,000 depending on access and repair complexity not including refrigerant or major parts if necessary
5. 🆕 Replace the System
If your system is old, inefficient, or leaking in many places, it may be time for an upgrade.
Great for peace of mind and long-term savings
Eligible systems may qualify for rebates or financing
💰 Cost varies depending on home size, options, and installation.
📞 Call to schedule an estimate
👥 Why Homeowners Trust Professional HVAC
We serve Worcester and Middlesex Counties with care, honesty, and clean, respectful service.
Our technicians are:
✅ Friendly and polite
✅ Factory-trained and EPA certified
✅ Careful with your home (we wear shoe covers and clean up after ourselves)
✅ Never pushy—just here to help
📞 Need Expert Advice You Can Trust?
We’re here to help you make the right call—whether that means fixing your leak or planning a new system. No pressure. No surprises.
☎️ Call Professional HVAC Today
(774) 708-0134
🌐 www.professional-hvac.com
📍 Proudly serving Worcester & Middlesex Counties
