The difference between servicing & regassing an AC system
Is your aircon as cool as it was last summer?
With summer coming in to play, it’s time to dust out those cobwebs from your vehicle’s Air Conditioning. If it’s been awhile since you last used your AC, you may notice a drop in performance. This can be caused by loss of gas or even accumulation of dust particles making it difficult for the AirCon system to work efficiently.
But how does an Air Conditioning System leak gas? Let’s find out!
WHY IS MY VEHICLE’S AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM LOW ON GAS?
There are several reasons why any AC system is low on gas. One of these is due to engine vibration. The AC refrigerant is stored inside the compressor which then moves the gas between the condenser and into the vent using tightly packed pipes. These pipes can become loose over time due to constant engine vibrations which is when a leak can occur.
Also, thin tubing within the AC System can allow gas to leak through. So, having reliable fittings is imperative to lock the gas in and keep you cool on the move.
DO YOU KNOW THE IMPACT OF LEAKED AIR CONDITIONING GAS?
The refrigerant used in air conditioners is extremely harmful to the environment. Most traditional gases contain CFC’s which eat up the ozone layer leading to further deterioration of the environment. So, if you feel that your AC is leaking gas, it would be best to get it assessed as soon as possible to reduce your impact on the environment.
HOW CAN I EXTEND THE LIFE OF MY AC SYSTEM?
They say, “prevention is better than a cure” and it is no different in your vehicle’s AC case either. Understandably, most air con systems can be repaired but what will the cost be to your wallet at the end of it?
To protect your AC system as much as possible, yearly servicing is highly recommend. This helps to prevent and ensure that there are no leaks or breakages in the system. As well as, giving your system a good clean out to optimize your cooling airflow on those hot summer days.
As much as yearly servicing is a regular investment, ensuring that your air conditioning system is running to its’ potential may just save you money in the long run.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AN AUTOMOTIVE AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE?
A detailed air conditioning service takes approximately 3 hours which includes a thorough examination of the AC system.
The technician will visually inspect the pipes, hoses, belts and pulleys for signs of wear and tear. Meanwhile, the condenser and its’ condition is assessed to ensure it’s in good working order. Once that is completed, the system is pressure tested to assess for any leaks.
Finally, the basic workings of the AC from the blower to the control switches, thermostat and the compressor clutch will also be checked as well as the condenser’s operating temperature.
Once all these checks have been performed, any leaks detected will be repaired prior to adding gas as required.
So, as much as simply regassing your AC system seems sufficient to provide cool air during summer, it is only a band aid fix to most likely a larger problem. Ensuring your AC system is regularly serviced will assist to identify wear or tear on the system as well as possible repairs required before becoming rather costly.