AC Recharge
What is an AC recharge?
For most cars, at some point, the air conditioner will stop blowing cold. There are a few reasons why this might happen, but whatever the case, the AC system will likely have to be recharged with refrigerant after the repair.
How does the AC recharge work?
The air conditioning system requires a specific amount of refrigerant in order to function correctly. Adding refrigerant will replenish this amount.
What are the symptoms that point to an AC recharge?
You may not realize there's a refrigerant leak until the air conditioner stops blowing cold. Refrigerant may slowly leak out of the system over days, weeks or even years.
Can I drive with a low amount AC coolant?
Driving a car that's low on refrigerant will not cause further damage immediately, but over an extended time, other seals in the system can begin to rot due to a lack of lubrication from refrigerant and oil. This will drive up the cost of the repair, when it's finally performed.
How often do AC recharges need to be performed?
The chance of having the air conditioning serviced during a vehicle's lifetime is very high, but it typically won't happen before the 100,000-mile mark. Air conditioning diagnostics are so common that many service shops specialize in heating and AC repair.
How are AC recharge issues diagnosed?
Diagnosing the air conditioning system requires some advanced knowledge and testing equipment. You'll want a technician with proper training and certification to work on yours.
If a leak is suspected, the technician may place a dye in the AC system and check for leaks with an ultraviolet flashlight.
How is an AC recharge done?
Most air conditioning repairs require the complete evacuation of refrigerant, using a recovery machine. Once all the parts are in place and the system is able to hold pressure, the technician will recharge the system with new refrigerant and oil.
RepairPal recommendations for AC recharges
Refrigerant is bad for environment and hazardous to people, so it should never be released into the air. Instead, a proper refrigerant recovery machine must be used.
If your vehicle hasn't yet been converted from R12 to R134a refrigerant, the best time to do this is when the air conditioning system is being serviced.
Can I do the AC recharge myself?
Recharging the AC system should be left to certified professionals, and is not a DIY job.