How much is an AC recharge kit for car?
AC recharge kit for car
If your car’s air conditioning starts blowing warmer than usual, you may need to get it recharged. Do-it-yourself recharging kits can be found at most auto parts stores and cost under $50 for a can of refrigerant with a hose and gauge attached. However, before you buy one of these kits, check your owner’s manual or an under-hood sticker to find out which type of refrigerant is required for your vehicle.
A cheap DIY kit like the InterDynamics will typically include a can of R134a, but if your vehicle requires R1234yf (the newer refrigerant used in most vehicles) you’ll have to look for a separate can. Some kits also come with a hose coupler and gauge adapter, which allows you to use any type of refrigerant with your system. If you want a better quality car ac recharge kit, the Kozyvacu Auto AC Repair Complete Tool Kit is available for a little more money but includes a 3.5 cfm vacuum pump, two gauges and three hoses, plus a carrying bag. Its owners say it’s easy to use and includes clear instructions.
Cheap recharging kits often deliver too much refrigerant into your vehicle’s system, which can damage various components like the compressor or condenser. To make sure you’re getting the right amount of refrigerant, your system should be evacuated and purged of any old refrigerant and moisture before a proper recharge can be performed. A certified mechanic can do this using specialized equipment and can help you determine whether the air conditioning system is leak-free before refilling it.
How much is an AC recharge kit for car?
You should also check your vehicle’s service intervals and owner’s manual to learn how often the AC system needs recharging. A good rule of thumb is to recharge it after the cooling capacity has dropped by about 30%. This indicates that the AC compressor is starting to wear out and that you need to consider repairs or a replacement.
A low refrigerant level is usually the sign of a small leak in the air conditioning system. If you suspect you have a leak, it’s best to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic who can use tools to pull a vacuum and find where the problem is located.
Then they can use a special AC recovery machine to safely remove the old refrigerant, clean out the entire system and refill it with fresh refrigerant at the correct pressure. They can also test the AC system to make sure it’s working properly.
Ultimately, it’s best to avoid doing DIY recharging because you could be wasting refrigerant or making the problem worse by overcharging the system. If you think your car’s AC is in need of a recharge, contact Chapel Hill Tire to schedule an appointment. Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and fix any AC problems. We offer fair prices and quality work that will keep your car cool season after season.