After a professional HVAC technician has recharged your air conditioner (AC) with refrigerant, there is typically no specific duration you need to leave the AC running just because it was charged. The refrigerant charge itself should not dictate the running time of the AC.
Once the AC has been charged and any necessary repairs or maintenance have been completed, you can turn on the AC and set it to your desired temperature. The running time will depend on various factors, such as:
Room Temperature: If the room temperature is far from the desired setpoint, the AC will run longer to reach that temperature.
Insulation and Sealing: The insulation and sealing of your home play a role in how well the AC can maintain the desired temperature. Poor insulation or leaks can result in more frequent AC cycles.
Outdoor Temperature: Higher outdoor temperatures can make the AC work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature.
AC Efficiency: The efficiency of your AC unit and its cooling capacity influence how long it needs to run to achieve the desired temperature.
Thermostat Settings: The thermostat settings (e.g., temperature, fan speed) also impact how long the AC will run.
It's essential to allow the AC to run long enough to reach the desired temperature and achieve a comfortable indoor environment. However, once the desired temperature is reached, you can turn off the AC or set it to a slightly higher temperature to save energy.
Remember that regular maintenance, including refrigerant checks and tune-ups, is crucial to keeping your AC running efficiently. If you notice any issues with your AC's performance, such as inadequate cooling or frequent cycling, it's best to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and address the problem. They can ensure that your AC is functioning optimally and efficiently.