Why is A/C refrigerant important?
The lifeblood of the A/C system, refrigerant is responsible for cooling warm air down. As the refrigerant passes through the system, it transforms from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure, high-temperature liquid, absorbing heat as it goes, and removing the hot air from the vehicle.
Why does it need to be recharged?
Over time, refrigerant levels can decrease due to either leaks in the system and/or natural losses from the constant changing state between gas and liquid. Indeed, in an average year, a vehicle can lose up to 10 percent of its refrigerant, meaning that your vehicle’s air conditioning system won’t work as well, whilst also putting more strain on your engine, and in turn using more fuel.
How do I know if my air con needs regassing?
The first sign that your air con needs recharging is that the air is not blowing as cool as it used to. With the temperature at minimum, and the fan speed on maximum, you should get a nice icy blast. If it’s not, it’s probably time for a refrigerant top up.
How often should I get my air con regassed?
An air conditioning regas is not included in your routine service schedule, and how often you will need it depends on your vehicle. However, as a rule of thumb most vehicle manufacturers recommend you service your vehicle’s AC every two years. If you don’t, chances are you’ll notice a rapid decline in cooling capacity, and it will take longer to demist your windscreen in the winter too. It could also cause costly, and avoidable damage to other parts of your air conditioning system.
Which refrigerant gas does my car use?
Your vehicle will use one of two types of refrigerant: R134A, popular on older vehicles, or HFO-1234yf, more commonly known as R1234yf or just 1234yf, a more environmentally friendly refrigerant that was mandated for use in all newly designed cars and LCVs fitted with A/C in the EU from 2017. If you’re unsure, our experts will be able to tell you.
What’s involved in an air con regas?
Whilst an air con regas is a relatively simple procedure, it should only be carried out by an F-Gas certified technician with the correct equipment and training. Before recharging your system the technician will recover any old refrigerant or vapour from the system – note it is illegal to discharge any refrigerant into the atmosphere – and perform a deep ‘vacuum’ to remove moisture and air. The correct amount of pure new refrigerant, as specified by the vehicle manufacturer, is then introduced.
Why should I use an AC specialist?
As authorised distributors and service agents for some of the world’s leading heating, ventilation and air conditioning manufacturers, our factory-trained and F-Gas certified technicians have the right skills and equipment to perform a reliable, and affordable regas at our Coventry workshop. Interested. Contact us now to book your vehicle in here.
