How Much Does Freon Cost? | 2024 Guide

Jun. 10, 2024

Searching for information about the cost of Freon in 2024 reveals that prices typically range between $200 and $500, with an average expense around $300. Many homeowners find themselves needing to recharge their AC systems due to refrigerant leaks, which can often increase the overall costs. Understanding how refrigerants function is essential, as 'Freon' is actually a brand name that has come to represent a type of refrigerant used in many air conditioning units. Our guide delves into various aspects that can impact the price of Freon.

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Major Cost Factors of Freon

The cost for replacing Freon largely depends on the size and type of your air conditioning unit, as well as any necessary recovery and disposal of spilled refrigerant.

Cost by Size of AC Unit

The size of a central air conditioning unit is measured in tons, and larger units require more refrigerant, hence higher refill costs. Here's a breakdown of recharge costs based on the unit size:

1/2 ton: $100 - $200
1 ton: $100 - $300
2 ton: $150 - $500
3 ton: $200 - $800
5 ton: $350 - $1000
6 ton: $500 - $1800

Cost by Type of AC Unit

Your air conditioning type plays a crucial role in determining freon costs, with window units being the cheapest and central AC the most expensive:

Window unit: $100 - $200
Mini-split: $100 - $300
Central AC: $150 - $600

Cost by Freon Recovery and Disposal

The cost of refrigerant refill is not the only expense—there can be additional charges for recovering and disposing of any spilled refrigerant, which typically adds between $50 and $150.

Labor Cost

Hiring an HVAC contractor for the freon refill is necessary, with professionals usually charging between $50 and $200 per hour. Additional minimum fees range from $75 to $200, and labor costs can rise during peak seasons.

Other Potential Cost Factors to Consider

Several additional factors can impact the cost of freon replacement.

AC Unit Age

Older units may utilize refrigerants that are being phased out for environmental reasons, leading to increased costs.

AC Conversion Cost

Converting your AC unit to use a more affordable refrigerant can cost between $2,000 and $4,500, which might be necessary as certain refrigerants become scarcer.

Cause of the Leak

If a newer system has a refrigerant leak, it could be due to manufacturing defects or installation issues, potentially covered under warranty. Older units usually experience leaks due to wear and tear.

Repairs

Leaks may also coincide with other AC damage, incurring further repair costs:

Minor repairs: $170 - $620
Evaporator coil replacement: $600 - $2,000
AC compressor replacement: $800 - $2,400
Condenser coil replacement: $900 - $4,000
New AC installation: $2,500 - $7,500

Cost of Refrigerant per Pound

Refrigerant prices are typically measured by the pound, and the current legislation impacts the availability and cost of various types.

R-22

R-22 is becoming increasingly rare, costing up to $80 per pound, as it was banned from production and import. Homeowners should consult HVAC professionals regarding alternatives.

R-454B

As R-410A is phased out, R-454B is becoming the expected replacement, yet pricing remains uncertain.

R-410A

R-410A, sold under the name Puron, has an average cost ranging between $12 and $25 per pound, still available for older systems but also on the rise in price.

How Do You Know Your AC System Is Low on Freon?

Indicators of a freon leak include:

Extended cooling times
High utility bills
Warm air from vents
Ice on refrigerant lines
Hissing or bubbling noises

Professional vs. DIY Freon Replacement

Due to regulations, refrigerant recovery and replacement must be completed by licensed professionals.

Professional Freon Replacement

Section 608 of the Clean Air Act restricts sales of refrigerant to certified HVAC professionals, ensuring only trained individuals handle it.

DIY Freon Replacement

Because of the technicality involved, freon replacement should not be attempted by homeowners, who lack both the training and legal ability to obtain refrigerants.

How to Hire a Professional

To ensure you select a qualified professional for your AC repair, consider these tips:

Confirm the contractor possesses an up-to-date license.
Ensure they are bonded and insured.
Check company ratings on the Better Business Bureau.
Request references and read reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews.
Obtain estimates from at least three different professionals.

How to Reduce Freon Costs

To economize on refrigerant costs, consider the following tips:

Regularly change air filters.
Avoid blocking vents to allow optimal airflow.
Use a programmable thermostat to minimize AC usage when not at home.
Schedule routine maintenance checks for your unit.
Seal any air leaks around windows and doors.

Our Recommendation

Consult with an HVAC professional regarding the refrigerant type for optimal cooling efficiency. If your AC unit is outdated, consider upgrading to a more efficient model.

Freon Cost FAQ

How long does Freon last in a house AC unit?

Freon is supposed to last the lifetime of the AC unit, needing replacement only in case of a leak.

How much does Freon removal cost?

The typical recovery and disposal of spilled freon costs between $50 and $150.