Fridge Refrigerant Recharge in Warsaw

Fridge running, compressor humming, but temperature won’t drop below +10–15°C? Back wall frost-free, condenser cold? Likely a refrigerant (freon) leak. A simple top-up won’t fix it — the leak must be found and repaired first, then the system evacuated and recharged. We do the full cycle on site across Warsaw: leak detection, brazing, vacuum and charge.

Cost

Depends on refrigerant type (R134a, R600a, R290), system volume and leak complexity. Prices in the table.

Serviceminmax
Thermostat replacement (fridge) 300 zł350 zł
Fan replacement (fridge) 300 zł400 zł
Sensor replacement (fridge) 300 zł350 zł
Defrost heater replacement (fridge) 350 zł450 zł
Refrigerant recharge (fridge) 450 zł600 zł
Compressor replacement (fridge) 700 zł1000 zł

How it works

  1. You describe — poor cooling, compressor running non-stop or short-cycling.
  2. Technician arrives with gauge manifold and gas detector.
  3. Check system pressure — confirm leak.
  4. Locate leak with gas detector or soap solution.
  5. Repair — braze the copper tube or replace damaged section.
  6. Evacuate system (remove air and moisture) — minimum 20 minutes.
  7. Charge correct amount of refrigerant by weight (per model specs).

Mistakes

  • Topping up without fixing the leak — it’ll empty again in a week.
  • Charging by feel instead of by weight — overcharge is as bad as undercharge.
  • Skipping evacuation — moisture destroys the compressor within months.
  • Confusing with thermostat fault — with a leak the back wall isn’t cold; with thermostat it is.
  • DIY with internet cans — without evacuation and brazing it’s pointless and dangerous (R600a is flammable).

Preparation

  • Fridge model.
  • When did it start.
  • Move food out.
  • Unplug.
  • Rear access — work on tubes.
  • Photo of model and data plate (shows refrigerant type).
  • Ventilate the kitchen (R600a requires it).
  • Allow 2–4 hours.

Case from Warsaw

Client in Targówek: Liebherr — compressor running non-stop, fridge at +14°C. Condenser barely warm. Gauge showed near-zero pressure. Found a micro-crack at the factory braze on the compressor line — vibration damage. Brazed, vacuumed 30 minutes, charged 55g R600a per spec. After 2 hours — fridge +4°C, freezer -18°C. 3 hours total. Tip: if your fridge gradually loses cold over weeks, that’s the signature of a slow refrigerant leak.

FAQ

What is refrigerant?

A gas circulating in a sealed system that transfers heat from the compartment to outside. Without it, the fridge can’t cool.

Why does it leak?

Micro-cracks from vibration, tube corrosion, factory brazing defects.

Can I just top up?

No — the leak must be fixed first, or the gas escapes again.

Is R600a flammable?

Yes — isobutane. The amount in a fridge (30–60g) is safe, but ventilation and no open flames are required during work.

Time?

2–4 hours.

Brands?

Samsung, LG, Bosch, Siemens, Liebherr, Whirlpool, Beko, Indesit.

Expensive?

More than a thermostat, less than a compressor.

How long will it last?

Years — if the leak is properly repaired.

DIY?

No — requires gauge manifold, vacuum pump, gas detector and brazing skills. R600a is flammable.

Warranty?

Yes, on workmanship and seal integrity.

Who does the work

Refrigerant recharges by technicians with refrigeration equipment. All of Warsaw. Not cooling? Call us — we’ll find the leak and recharge.