and now, NASCAR Racing Sponsor
What the Factory Charge Covers
Every air conditioning system we ship arrives pre-charged from the manufacturer. The condenser or heat pump comes sealed with a refrigerant charge sized for a standard installation, which is about 20 feet of refrigerant line set. For many homes that standard charge is enough to run the system as is, with no extra refrigerant needed once the lines are connected and the unit is commissioned.
When Extra Refrigerant Is Needed
The 20 foot figure is a baseline, not a limit. If the distance between your indoor coil and outdoor unit is longer than the standard line set length, the additional tubing holds more refrigerant volume, so the system has to be topped off to run correctly. An undercharged or overcharged system loses efficiency and can wear out faster, which is why the final charge is set during installation based on your actual line length and the manufacturer specifications.
Why EPA Certification Matters
Refrigerant is regulated, so anyone who handles it has to hold an EPA certification. That rule applies whether the system needs a top off or any future service. A certified technician evacuates the lines with a vacuum pump to remove air and moisture, then adds or adjusts the refrigerant to the correct level. This protects both the equipment and the environment and keeps your factory warranty intact.
Pre-Charge Quick Reference
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Factory charge | Covers about 20 feet of standard line set |
| Longer line runs | Require additional refrigerant added at installation |
| Who adds refrigerant | An EPA certified technician only |
Shop Air Conditioning Systems
Pre-charged condensers, heat pumps, and the line sets to complete them.
Common questions
How many feet of line set does the factory charge cover?
Do I need to add refrigerant to a new system?
Who is allowed to handle the refrigerant?
25 years sizing and shipping HVAC systems to homeowners and contractors.