28 Jan How to Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning System
How to Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning System
Driving home in warm weather with your car’s air conditioner blowing hot air can be incredibly uncomfortable. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain and repair your auto’s AC system. If you suspect that your car’s AC isn’t working correctly, you might have an issue with your refrigerant gas. But don’t attempt to fix this issue DIY-style – let the pros at Keepin Cool Auto Air Conditioning handle it safely and efficiently.
Understanding Your Car’s Air Conditioning
A vehicle’s air conditioning system does more than just disperse cool air – it actually controls the climate within the cabin. Despite its importance, the system isn’t immune to problems, especially if left unchecked over longer periods.
So, how does car air conditioning work?
Several parts make up a vehicle’s AC, but the refrigerant gas is arguably the most crucial component. In a constant cycle of changing states, this refrigerant absorbs the car’s internal heat and expels it outside. The absorbed heat causes the fluid to evaporate, which then pushed by a fan across cold tubes, maintaining the system’s cool climate.
Can You Refill Your Car’s AC Refrigerant Yourself?
Handling fluorocarbon refrigeration gases in Australia without the proper licencing is illegal, largely due to the potential safety risks and the detrimental environmental impact of these gases.
Refrigerants carry a long lifespan in the atmosphere and can deplete the Earth’s ozone layer – causing significant climate change, says Refrigerants Australia. Therefore, you must have the appropriate ARCtick Refrigeration Handling Licence to handle refrigerant gases. Personal safety risks arise without the required skills and knowledge necessary.
Furthermore, recharging the air conditioner without checking for any underlying problems is prohibited. Only ARC-licensed technicians can handle and trade refrigerant gases, say representatives from the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC). Discharging these gases can lead to substantial fines for both individuals and corporations, illustrating the need for appropriate measures when dealing with these substances.
Cost and Duration of Recharging Your Car’s Air Conditioning System
The cost to recharge a car’s air conditioning unit varies, typically ranging from AUD 180 to AUD 250 depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
How much time does a recharge take? As per mechanics and air conditioning experts at Keepin Cool Auto Air Conditioning, the entire process usually takes about an hour or slightly more.
In need of AC recharge or any other air conditioning services for your vehicle? Get in touch with us at Keepin Cool Auto Air Conditioning today – where car air con issues are resolved safely by the professionals.
FAQs about car’s air conditioning system:
1. What’s the role of my car’s air conditioning?
Your car’s air conditioning system is engineered to regulate the climate within the vehicle’s cabin, providing comfort while you drive. Beyond cooling the air, it’s also designed to dehumidify and cleanse the air.
2. How crucial is the refrigerant gas to my vehicle’s air conditioning system?
The refrigerant gas is essential. As it circulates, it cycles from gas to liquid and back again, absorbing and expelling heat from the interior of the vehicle in the process, thus effectively cooling it down.
3. Is it permissible for me to refill my car’s air conditioning refrigerant in Australia?
In Australia, it’s illegal to handle fluorocarbon refrigeration gases without carrying the appropriate ARCtick Refrigerant Handling Licence. These gases not only pose potential safety risks but also can inflict severe environmental damage, highlighting the necessity to engage a licensed professional like Keepin Cool Auto Air Conditioning.
4. What are the consequences if I illegally discharge fluorocarbon gases in Australia?
If you’re caught illegally discharging these harmful gases without the suitable license, the penalties are significant – fines can reach up to $66,600 for individuals and up to a staggering $333,000 for corporations.
5. Can disuse cause my car’s air conditioning system to fail?
Yes, similar to other parts of your vehicle, your car’s AC system operates best with regular use. If it’s not routinely used, seals may dry out, making the system prone to refrigerant leaks.
6. How frequently should I operate my car’s air conditioning system?
We recommend running your car’s air conditioning system for a short period at least once a week, irrespective of the weather. This habit keeps the system’s seals well-lubricated, which aids in preventing leaks.
7. Can I utilise my air conditioner during winter?
Absolutely, yes! In fact, running your AC system in winter offers the advantage of effective defogging of car windows by significantly reducing the vehicle’s internal moisture content.
8. Why does my air conditioner emit a strange smell when I activate it?
Odd smells emanating from your car’s AC system could potentially signify bacterial growth within the system. If you notice any unusual odours, we recommend scheduling a check and clean of your air conditioning system with trusted professionals at Keepin Cool Auto Air Conditioning.