Can I use an AC car recharge kit if my car’s AC isn’t working at all?
AC car recharge kit
No one enjoys driving on a hot day with an air conditioning system that no longer blows cold. That’s why it’s important to know when your car needs a refrigerant recharge kit to improve its cooling performance. Over time, the refrigerant gas that makes the car AC work will leak out of the system. This is an inevitable part of the aging process, and it’s why your car will eventually need to be recharged with fresh refrigerant.
You can buy a DIY manual a/c car recharge kit at many auto parts stores. These kits have a can of refrigerant, a can of dye, a vacuum pump, and a pair of hoses with quick-connect fittings. You can connect the hoses to your vehicle’s low-side service port and then follow the instructions on the label to add the refrigerant.
Most recharge kits come with a gauge that indicates how much pressure is in the system. This isn’t a very accurate way to check the pressure, but it can help you determine how much refrigerant you need to add. Some kits also include a “stop-leak sealer,” which claims to stop leaks. However, these products often do more harm than good. They often don’t work, and if they do, they can interfere with the hoses, compressor, and pumps in the system, making repairs more difficult and expensive.
Can I use an AC car recharge kit if my car’s AC isn’t working at all?
A leaking air conditioner may not only leak refrigerant into the atmosphere, but it can also leak contaminants like dirt, dust, grime, and even water into the system. These contaminants can damage hoses, o-rings, the compressor, and the condenser. They can also contaminate the refrigerant, rendering it unusable.
If you suspect a leak, the first thing to do is to wipe away any dust or debris from the low-pressure service port with a clean cloth. Then, remove the cap from the low-pressure port and attach a new, high-quality recharge hose to it. The quick-connect fitting on the hose should only fit on the correct port, so make sure it’s snug and secure.
Once you’ve attached the hose and started the system, it will take about three to four minutes for the refrigerant to reach max pressure. You’ll then hear the compressor clutch engage and the system will start to cool. The problem with using a DIY kit is that it only addresses one side of the system, and doesn’t address any underlying issues in the system that are causing the leaks. Instead, it’s best to see a professional for a complete inspection and proper AC recharge.
If you’ve noticed a foul smell coming from your vents, or if your air conditioner isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, you should schedule an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire for a full auto AC service. We provide quality work at a fair price, and we’re happy to answer any questions you have about your car AC or other automotive concerns! Call us today to book an appointment.