Having a working air conditioner in your car is a must to stay comfortable, especially during hot weather. It also removes moisture from the air inside your windows especially during cold or humid weather to prevent fogging. If your air conditioner is not cooling as good as it used to, your car AC Gas Recharge maybe needed.
Using an AC recharge kit to recharge your car’s air conditioning system requires taking safety precautions and knowing when to call a professional. This Howuae post will guide you through the process and explain the symptoms of low refrigerant so you can do it safely and effectively. Read on!
What is an AC Recharge?
Adding refrigerant to your car’s air conditioning system is referred to as an AC recharge. Most automakers recommend recharging the air conditioner every two years for older vehicles that use the refrigerant Freon.
However, many newer cars use a much longer-lasting refrigerant called R134a. Regular maintenance of your AC system is a responsible step to ensure its longevity and your comfort. Does your brand-new vehicle require regular AC recharges? There’s probably a leak in your air conditioning system somewhere.
Most manufacturers recommend recharging the air conditioner every 2 years for older vehicles that use Freon.
But many newer cars use a longer-lasting refrigerant, R134a.
If your new car requires frequent recharges, look for a possible leak in the AC system.
What to Look for When Your Car’s AC Needs To Be Recharged
Is your car’s air conditioning not working? Check these 4 signs to decide if you need to book an appointment:
1. Blowing Hot Air
If your car is blowing warm or hot air, that’s a clear sign your air conditioner is malfunctioning. If the refrigerant level is low, the evaporator core won’t reach the ideal temperature for cooling.
The air may feel cold at first but then warm up—or never cool down. In any case, it’s time to book an A/C check.
2. Visible Refrigerant Leak
Have you seen damp patches or frost on the under-hood A/C lines or around the welds of the A/C components? If your car isn’t blowing cold air and you’re seeing these, you may need A/C service.
3. No AC Clutch Engagement
When you turn on your air conditioner, the compressor’s A/C clutch engages—usually with a small click. The clutch relies on system pressure to engage. If the refrigerant level is too high or too low, your vehicle may not allow the compressor clutch to engage, and the system won’t circulate refrigerant.
4. Bad Odour
Strange odours have no business in your car’s AC vents. A weird smell usually means there’s mildew or water in the system. For A/C services, visit Dubai local Car AC Repair centre, as there are many possibilities.
A Guide on AC Recharging
Determine the Air Quality
Don’t charge the car AC if the air temperature is 55°F or lower. Always use a charging hose with a gauge. The refrigerant package should include a chart to help you determine the correct pressure based on surrounding air temperature.
💡 Different AC systems require different pressures. Always consult a maintenance manual or verified online source to ensure you’re following the proper guidelines.
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AC Recharging Guide (Step-by-Step)
You can recharge an air conditioning system with just one gauge, but it’s always recommended to use a full set of manifold gauges that monitor both high and low side pressures.
Step-by-Step AC Recharge Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find the Low Side Port |
| 2 | Remove Dust from Port Cap |
| 3 | Attach the Recharge Kit |
| 4 | Check the Pressure |
| 5 | Safely Add Refrigerant |
| 6 | Monitor the Compressor Clutch |
| 7 | Remove the Charging Hose |
| 8 | Check the O-Ring |
1. Find the Low Side Port
Open the hood and locate the low side service port—usually between the compressor and the accumulator. It’s labeled with an ‘L’ and sits on the larger tube.
Important: R12 was the original refrigerant in most cars made in 1994 and later. If the vehicle still uses R12, you must evacuate and recharge—never mix refrigerants.
2. Remove Dust
Use a clean cloth to remove dust before opening the port.
3. Attach the Recharge Kit
Securely attach the recharge kit hose to the low side port.
4. Check the Pressure
If the gauge shows normal levels, no recharge is needed.
5. Safely Add Refrigerant
- Place a thermometer in the dashboard vent.
- Turn the fan on full blast and set the AC to the coldest setting.
- Squeeze the recharge kit trigger in short bursts.
- Monitor the gauge closely.
The compressor clutch should engage when the low side pressure reaches 25-30 PSI.
Vent temperature should be between 35°C to 48°C, and outside temperature between 70°F to 80°F.
6. Remove the Charging Hose
Leave the can attached and disconnect the charging hose once the pressure is correct. Store leftover refrigerant in a cool, dry place.
7. Check the Service Port O-Ring
Before reinstalling, inspect the O-ring underneath the cap. Ensure it is not torn, nicked, or cracked. If the Schrader valve leaks, this O-ring adds extra protection.
AC Gas Recharge Average Cost Range
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Price (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese & Korean Cars | 150 | Standard refill with R-134a refrigerant. |
| American Cars | 200 | May include additional diagnostics. |
| German Cars | 250 | Often requires specific refrigerants and thorough system checks. |
Conclusion
If you need to recharge your air conditioner, there is probably a problem with your car’s AC system. Due to its closed system, your car’s air conditioner shouldn’t require frequent recharging.
This system uses the same pump to circulate the same coolant, reducing external contamination. Sometimes, the vent may be blocked, or the filter may be too clogged.
Always check all potential causes before deciding to recharge your car’s air conditioner.
It may not even be necessary to recharge in some cases.
