When your car’s air conditioning stops blowing cool air, it may be time for a recharge. Recharging an AC system can be a relatively easy do-it-yourself job with the right tools and refrigerant. However, before you take the plunge to do it yourself, be sure you understand how an air conditioner works and why the refrigerant might be low.
A properly working AC system is essential for driving comfort in hot weather, especially if you’re a driver that uses their vehicle for long periods of time. The air conditioning system in your car is a closed, pressurized system with an oil and refrigerant running through a series of seals, hoses, and components. If the system becomes low on refrigerant, it can cause problems with the AC compressor and other components.
If the system is leaking, it can also allow for air and moisture to enter the system, which can be very damaging to all of the components. Therefore, it is very important to keep the refrigerant level in your car at a healthy amount and have regular recharging done to avoid any significant leaks.
Car AC Recharge
Recharging the air conditioning Car AC recharge system in your vehicle is a simple process of adding new refrigerant to the sealed system. Most manufacturers recommend that the air conditioning system be recharged every two years or so, but there are some factors that can affect this such as climate and frequency of use.
Many of the parts and tools required to perform a AC recharge can be purchased from a local automotive store or through online retailers. There are some kits available that include the refrigerant, a reusable recharge hose that is outfitted with an inline pressure gauge, and detailed instructions. Be sure to choose a refrigerant that is compatible with your vehicle manufacturer and be aware that different systems have different recommended pressures.
Before starting the recharge, it is very important to ensure that the system is vacuumed of all existing refrigerant and any debris. This can be accomplished by a vacuum pump or the manifold gauge set that is included in most recharge kits, and it’s a good idea to check out the tools available through AutoZone’s Loan-A-Tool program if you plan to do this work yourself.
It’s always best to have any work that involves handling hazardous liquids completed by a certified technician. Refrigerant, or Freon, is highly flammable and can be toxic if ingested or comes into contact with the skin. It’s also possible to damage the system itself if it isn’t handled correctly, so a professional repair shop is your best bet.
Performing an AC recharge yourself isn’t as difficult as it might seem at first glance, but it’s still a repair that should be left to professionals for the safety of the vehicle and the user. A professional can also diagnose the root causes of any issues with your air conditioning, making the repair easier and more cost effective in the long run.