Can I recharge my car’s AC system
Over time, all cars lose some of the refrigerant gas that makes their air conditioning systems work. When this happens, your car’s AC will stop cooling the way it should and it might need a recharge. However, recharging your system yourself can be much less expensive than taking it into the shop.
Fortunately, there are many “do it yourself” (DIY) auto air conditioning recharge kits available at most local NAPA Auto Parts stores. You’ll find kits that include everything you need to recharge your car’s AC system including a can of refrigerant, an adapter hose and a pressure gauge. You’ll also find leak detection dye in these kits to help you identify any leaking or seepage.
Before you buy a a/c car recharge kit, make sure you’re clear on what type of refrigerant your vehicle needs. There are several different types of refrigerant in use today, and each one has a specific formula that works best in certain vehicles. Using the wrong refrigerant can damage the delicate components in your AC system, so it’s important to know which one you need to purchase.
Can I recharge my car’s AC system in cold weather?
Next, read the directions carefully and follow the safety guidelines outlined by the manufacturer of your A/C recharge kit. It’s also a good idea to have an extra can of refrigerant on hand in case you run out during the recharge process. Once you’re ready to begin, connect the hose at the end of the recharge kit’s gauge assembly to the low-side service port on your air conditioner. Typically, this is located on the front of the engine block, in the front of the grill or underneath the car near the rear axle. Then, turn on your car and allow it to warm up for about an hour.
After an hour or so, start the AC and listen for any sounds of the compressor clutch spinning. Once the system is running, set your pressure gauge to the current temperature. Typically, the gauge is marked with an arrow to help you target the correct PSI. Then, slowly and steadily add the required amount of refrigerant to your air conditioner system. You should only add a little at a time and monitor the pressure gauge to ensure that you don’t overflow the system.
You’ll know when you have enough refrigerant added to the system because the pressure gauge should move closer to the indicated point on the gauge. Once you’ve reached the right level of pressure, shut off the system and disconnect the hose from the L port on the A/C compressor.
If you notice any signs of leaking, it’s time to call your local NAPA Auto Care Center for professional auto AC repair in Mukwonago, WI. A technician can check the entire A/C system for leaks and properly refill it with a fresh batch of refrigerant. This will restore the efficiency of your car’s A/C and help it last longer.
Remember that at-home A/C recharging kits don’t replace the need for regular maintenance services from a professional. During an in-shop air conditioning service, a mechanic will remove all the old refrigerant and moisture from the system, clean the condenser and other components, and then fill the system with the right amount of new refrigerant for your vehicle.