Do New AC Units Come With Refrigerant? Everything You Need to Know

Installing a new air conditioner? Find out if the refrigerant is included and how the charging process works.

The Pre-Charge

When you purchase a new central air conditioning unit, the outdoor condenser typically comes "pre-charged" from the factory with a specific amount of refrigerant (usually enough for a standard 15-foot line set).

The Installation Process

While the unit comes with refrigerant, the installation process is critical. The technician must connect the indoor and outdoor units with copper lines, vacuum out all the air and moisture from those lines, and then release the factory charge into the system.

Adjusting the Charge

If your home requires a longer line set (more than 15 feet), the technician will need to add additional refrigerant on-site to ensure the system operates at peak efficiency. This precise "charging" process is why AC installation must be handled by a certified professional.