I’m so sorry to sound stupid, but how do you know what kind you need? We bought an older house, and I can’t find out. Our AC has been crapping out, and we were told to have it charged, but according to the paperwork I do have, the unit is almost 12 years old anyway, so maybe we should just replace? I have severe asthma, so I need AC or breathing becomes VERY difficult in North Carolina summers.
12 years old- its R-22
Wombtotomb is probably correct. At 12 years old, chances are it is R22. The manufacturers tag on the outdoor unit will specify what refrigerant and approximately how much the unit holds.
If you have a chronic leak in the unit, at that age, I would upgrade it and get new equipment with the R410a refrigerant.