The first step is always a preliminary visit. We measure the exact copper pipe length between the indoor and outdoor units and check the available space for the outdoor unit and its orientation. We also assess if the electrical panel has sufficient capacity for the new equipment's consumption or if the contracted power needs to be increased, and verify community regulations regarding facade installations. Without measuring the copper pipes, checking the facade, and evaluating the electrical panel, we cannot provide an honest quote. Free, no-obligation visit. Call us, message us on WhatsApp, or request your quote online — we'll reply in under 10 minutes during business hours.

After connecting the copper pipes between the indoor and outdoor units, a deep vacuum must be created in the refrigeration circuit to remove air and moisture before charging the gas. Without a vacuum, residual air mixed with the refrigerant gas reduces equipment efficiency by 20-30 percent, heats the compressor, and drastically shortens its lifespan. The correct vacuum is achieved with a specific pump that lowers the pressure to -700 millibars and is maintained for 30 minutes to verify leak tightness. The electrical check includes the compressor's nominal consumption on start-up and running, insulation check of the wiring, condition of the start capacitors (which degrade from the seventh or eighth year), and thermostat verification. The final disinfection with a certified air conditioning product eliminates bacteria, fungi, and odours accumulated in the coil. This prevents the characteristic musty smell when you turn on the air conditioning after winter. The real cost savings of maintenance are easy to calculate. A serious air conditioning breakdown in August, involving compressor replacement or significant leak repair, costs several times more than annual maintenance over 5 consecutive years. Data from our own clients confirm that equipment with scheduled maintenance lasts 40 percent longer than equipment without any maintenance.

The second detail is the gas charge. The amount must be exactly what the manufacturer indicates for the installed copper pipe length. A gram more or less won't be noticeable immediately but accumulated over 5 years results in performance loss. Re-gassing is always done with a precision electronic scale, not estimated by pressure as some quick installers do. Toshiba, Panasonic, and Fujitsu are a step below in price but not far off in quality. They are a good option for tight budgets. More economical brands like Samsung, Hisense, or basic Hitachi models work correctly for the first four or five years, but their efficiency and durability are lower, and they usually require more maintenance. Yes, it is mandatory in Spain for any handling of refrigerant gas. Without it, the manufacturer's warranty is voided, and the installation may be declared illegal.

The price for gas re-charging in Cervelló typically ranges between €126 and €1602 as a guideline. The final figure depends on the property's condition, materials, and working time, and we always finalise it after seeing photos or —if you prefer— after a site visit, with no obligation. Older models without inverter technology start and stop abruptly at maximum power, which stresses the compressor more. Modern inverter models modulate smoothly and last longer. Their electronics are more sensitive, and from the seventh or eighth year onwards, board failures start to appear, requiring the entire module to be replaced. The difference between repairing it or changing the unit depends on the cost of the part versus the price of an equivalent new unit. Burned-out compressor in budget-range units with 6-9 years of intensive use. This is the most expensive fault. Replacing the compressor costs a significant portion of a new unit's price and is only worthwhile for premium units with a reasonable residual lifespan. For basic units, we usually recommend replacement.