The need to refill or recharge the gas in a refrigerator typically depends on whether the refrigerator uses a refrigerant that is prone to leaks or not. In modern refrigerators, the refrigerant used is usually a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), such as R-134a, which has a low potential for leaking. As a result, under normal operating conditions and proper maintenance, refrigerators can often go their entire lifespan without requiring a refrigerant recharge.
The typical lifespan of a well-maintained refrigerator is around 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the brand, model, and usage. During this time, if the refrigerator does not develop any refrigerant leaks or other issues affecting its cooling system, there should be no need to refill the gas.
If a refrigerator does require a gas refill or recharge, it is usually an indication of a refrigerant leak. In such cases, simply refilling the gas without fixing the leak would be a temporary solution and not a recommended approach. Fixing the leak and ensuring the proper functioning of the cooling system is essential to avoid further refrigerant losses and maintain the refrigerator's performance.
If you find that your refrigerator is not cooling properly or seems to be losing cooling capacity, it's best to contact a qualified technician or appliance repair service to diagnose the issue. They can inspect the system for leaks and other problems and provide the appropriate repairs to ensure the refrigerator operates efficiently for its expected lifespan.