R22 vs R410A vs R32 Refrigerant Gas — Which Does Your Aircond Use?
Confused about refrigerant gas types? Here's a simple guide to R22, R410A, and R32 — how to identify which one your unit uses and what top-up costs to expect.
The Three Main Refrigerant Types in Malaysia
Most aircond units in Malaysia use one of three refrigerant types: R22, R410A, or R32. Each has different properties, costs, and environmental impact.
R22 (Freon)
The oldest gas type. Found in units made before 2015. R22 is being phased out globally due to its high ozone depletion potential.
- Units: Pre-2015 models
- Top-up cost: RM 120 (1.0 HP), RM 150 (1.5–2.0 HP), RM 180 (2.5–3.0 HP)
R410A
The standard gas for units made between 2010–2020. No ozone depletion but higher global warming potential than R32.
- Units: 2010–2020 Daikin, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, LG, Samsung
- Top-up cost: RM 150 (1.0 HP), RM 180 (1.5–2.0 HP), RM 200 (2.5–3.0 HP)
R32
The current standard for new inverter units. Lower global warming potential, better energy efficiency. Most new units use R32.
- Units: 2018 onwards, especially inverter models
- Top-up cost: RM 180 (1.0 HP), RM 200 (1.5–2.0 HP), RM 220 (2.5–3.0 HP)
Important: Never Mix Refrigerant Types
This cannot be overstated — mixing refrigerant types causes immediate and permanent damage to the compressor. R22 and R410A operate at completely different pressure ranges. R32 and R410A, while both HFCs, have different molecular compositions and cannot be mixed. A technician who proposes "topping up" without first identifying the gas type or measuring current pressure is not following correct procedure. KL Renovator always identifies the refrigerant type from the outdoor unit sticker before any gas work begins.
See: Refrigerant Top-Up | Fix: Aircond Low Gas
R22 Phase-Out and What It Means for Older Units
R22 is being phased out globally under the Montreal Protocol. In Malaysia, new R22 production for domestic use has already been restricted, and prices for R22 top-up have risen as supply decreases. If your unit uses R22 and is over 12 years old, consider planning for replacement in the next 2–3 years rather than continuing to invest in top-ups and repairs on an aging unit with an increasingly difficult-to-source refrigerant.
Which Gas Should You Choose When Buying New?
Always choose R32 when buying a new aircond in 2026. All major brands — Daikin, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Samsung, LG — now use R32 in their latest inverter models. R32 has a lower global warming potential, requires less refrigerant volume for the same cooling output, and will remain readily available for many years. R410A units are still sold but represent older technology with higher environmental impact.
WhatsApp +60 18-298 3573 to identify your gas type from a photo of your outdoor unit. See: R32/R410A Gas Service
Quick answer
KL Renovator's practical answer: Confused about refrigerant gas types? Here's a simple guide to R22, R410A, and R32 — how to identify which one your unit uses and what top-up costs to expect.
Reader FAQs
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Eligible workmanship is covered by a 1-month workmanship warranty.
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