Car AC recharge is a vital maintenance task, especially in hot weather. Your car’s air conditioner helps keep your interior cool and comfortable, and it also removes moisture which can help prevent mold and mildew in the cabin.
When your car’s air conditioning starts to lose its ability to blow cold air, it is likely time to have the system recharged. However, this is a job best left to professionals, since refrigerant is flammable and can be dangerous if improperly handled. There are also concerns that DIY car AC recharge may damage your system, which would cost you more money in repairs.
A professional can test the system pressures using a special machine and start searching for leaks right away. If the system is low or empty, a special refrigerant and dye will be added to aid in finding a leak. Once the leak is located, the system will need to be evacuated and repaired before the refrigerant is added back to the system.
Most automotive service shops offer an AC recharge service for a nominal fee, which is typically less than the cost of an oil change or new tires. It is recommended that your car’s air conditioning be recharged once every two years, or whenever the system is no longer blowing cold air. If you have any signs that your air conditioner is struggling, such as a strange smell or loud noises, it is a good idea to bring the vehicle in for a recharge before the summer heat sets in.
If you are thinking about doing a Car AC recharge yourself, it is important to use an auto recharging kit that has been specifically designed for your vehicle’s type of refrigerant. These kits usually include a can of the refrigerant you need, as well as a reusable hose outfitted with an inline pressure gauge. They also include a can of seal conditioner which helps to maintain the o-rings and other seals in your vehicle’s air conditioning system.
It is also a good idea to purchase a UV light and some leak detection dye. These tools can help you locate the source of the leak, which is often difficult to find. The leak detection dye is usually a dark color that will be easily visible against the engine or under the chassis of your car. The UV light shines against the components and makes it easier to see a small leak or crack.
If you have any questions about your vehicle’s air conditioning, or if you are having issues with it, we invite you to visit your local AutoZone store. We have all the tools, parts and accessories you need to get your vehicle’s AC system working properly again. Our knowledgeable AutoZone technicians can help you determine whether an AC recharge or other service is needed for your vehicle, and they can answer any questions you might have about the process. We look forward to seeing you soon!