AC leaks before using a recharge kit
The air conditioning system is a closed system that relies on sealed seals, hoses and other components to keep the cool air flowing. Over time, the refrigerant gas that runs the AC can leak out and you will need to get it recharged. DIY car recharge kits promise to help you solve this problem at home for a fraction of the cost of a professional repair. While these do-it-yourself kits are convenient, they may not be what you’re looking for to keep your vehicle cool.
You’ve probably seen the $35 car ac recharge kit at auto parts stores. These are marketed as easy to use, include additives that claim to seal leaks and feature a gauge for accurate recharging. They do work – but only to a point. A full a/c recharge involves the evacuation of old refrigerant, cleaning out moisture and contaminants from the system, and then filling it up with the correct type of refrigerant at the proper pressure. This process requires special equipment that you can’t buy in a recharging kit.
In addition, DIY recharge kits aren’t compatible with all types of refrigerant. If you use the wrong type of refrigerant, it can do dangerous chemical reactions in the system. This can cause the compressor and other parts to wear out or leak. The best way to avoid this is to use a kit with the specific refrigerant listed for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or on a sticker on the front frame of the engine compartment.
Are there any DIY methods to detect AC leaks before using a recharge kit?
Another problem is that manual recharge kits leave water in the a/c lines. When refrigerant and water mix, they hydrolyze to create harmful chemicals such as hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid. These corrode metals and eat away at different parts in the car’s AC system, creating a sludge that clogs the lines.
A good quality recharging kit will also have snap-lock couplers that only work with the specified refrigerant. This ensures that R-134a is not put into a car with an older R-1234yf AC system and vice versa. Even if you have the right type of refrigerant, DIY recharging can still damage your car’s air conditioner. It’s important to find a professional who can diagnose the problem and perform a repair, especially if you’re dealing with a severe leak.
A professional technician can inspect your a/c for leaks, corrosion and other problems that can be hidden or hard to detect by the average driver. They can also replace the oil and hoses that are worn out or damaged. A professional AC repair service is a safer, more reliable option than using an AC recharge kit at home and could save you thousands in the long run. Trying to fix your own air conditioning can lead to dangerous accidents, injury and costly repairs in the future. For these reasons, you should always consult an ASE-certified technician for professional car AC repair and maintenance services.