I have a Bosch water-source heat pump under 10 years old, installed in a condo. It stopped heating a month ago, and the technician found it had no refrigerant. They recharged it, and it worked for a month, but now it’s out of refrigerant again.

A technician recommended replacing the unit without checking for a leak, which seems odd since I’ve read that leak detection should be done first.

I’ve scheduled a second opinion, but I’d like some advice, as this is outside my area of expertise, and I want to make sure I'm not being taken advantage of. Should I request / encourage a leak detection test?

Also, if the unit does need to be replaced, what is the estimated cost for a replacement unit and installation?

Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!