Nothing can be worse than stepping into your car in summer with no AC. Over time, the vehicle’s air conditioning system can lose its cooling efficiency due to a gradual drop in refrigerant levels if your car’s air con is not cooling as it used to. You need to recharge your car AC system.
This is an essential maintenance in summer. In this blog, we are going to explain how to recharge a car system, the cost of a car air conditioning recharge, and what type of AC gas your vehicle might need.
What is a Car AC system recharge?
A car AC system recharge is basically a process of refilling the refrigerant to make sure the air conditioner works perfectly during the hot weather. This is also known as regassing. In this process, the air conditioning unit is refilled with refrigerant gas (usually R-134a or R-1234yf). This process becomes mandatory if the refrigerant level of your car drops. It happens due to leaks or normal degradation. There are some signs demonstrating the need for a car AC system recharge:
- Warm air coming from vents
- The AC clutch is not engaging
- Hissing noises under the hood
- Poor fuel efficiency when the AC is on
How to Recharge a Car AC System?
Well, there are two ways to recharge a car’s AC system. One is a DIY method and the other is professional.
DIY method (only for experienced users)
In the DIY method, you need to purchase a recharge kit with a gauge and compatible refrigerant. After this, try to locate the low-pressure service port.
Attach the hose and read the pressure. After this, add refrigerant slowly while monitoring the gauge. Avoid overcharging, which can damage your system.
This method is not advisable even if you are an experienced user. Even a small negligence can cause major loss.
Professional Method
Getting a professional to recharge your car AC system is one of the best and most reliable options. Only an experienced technician can refill the refrigerant professionally and can spot leakages or other related issues so that your AC works perfectly. They can also spot the issues that need to be resolved to save you from major damages in the future.
When do you need to recharge your car’s AC system?
Typically, you need a Car AC System Recharge between 2–3 years. Because the refrigerant leaks over time. Sometimes, you need to recharge your car’s AC system sooner due to signs of low refrigerant, like warm air coming from the vents or weak airflow. Additionally, if the AC takes time to cool the cabin, it needs to be recharged.
What type of recharge gas do you require?
This is an important factor to consider at the time of an AC car recharge system. If your car’s model is older, such as a car before 2013, you require (R134a) gas, and if you have a new model car, you require (R1234YF). (R134a) is basically a hydrofluorocarbon gas used in old cars. In contemporary times, (R1234YF) is a Hydrofluoroolefin gas used in new modern cars.
It is an environmentally friendly recharge gas option. Do you know how to identify what type of gas your vehicle requires? You can check the labels under the hood of your car to identify the refrigerant. The best way to consult an experienced mechanic or air conditioning technician.
Why Professional Car AC Recharge Services Are Worth It
Getting professional car AC recharge services is worth it because after getting these services, you can see a huge difference. You can notice that your AC provides cooling efficiency in hot weather. It also leads to better fuel economy when the AC puts less pressure on the engine.
A professional Car AC System Recharge improves the air quality inside your car. It also filters out the pollutants. It also avoids leakages. Trained professionals can help you diagnose the leakages and save you from a major loss.
Get our services:
To sum it up, to keep your car cool in the summer, a car AC system recharge is an essential task. You can enjoy travelling in summer after getting your air con regassed. Need a car AC recharge in London? At London Motor Sports, we offer fast, reliable and affordable Car AC System Recharge services.
Complete guide to vehicle AC repair and maintenance
FAQs
How often should I recharge my car’s AC system?
Most of the vehicles require recharge between 2–3 years. However, it also depends on the condition of the system. In some cases, you might need to get it recharged early. If you notice weak airflow or warm air coming from vents, it’s time to recharge your car’s AC system.
Can I recharge my car’s AC system myself?
If you are highly experienced, you can do it yourself. Otherwise, you need to seek a professional platform to do it on your behalf.