How can we help?
Air Conditioning Regassing
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? No
Typical Lead Time: 1-2 days
What does Air Conditioning Gas do?
A vehicle’s air conditioning system consists of four main components, the compressor, the condenser, the evaporator and the refrigerant. This refrigerant, generally termed as “gas”, gets circulated around the system by the compressor through the condenser. This condenser works in the same way as the vehicles cooling radiator where air is passed through the fins, quickly cooling the gas into a liquid.
This liquid then goes through a drier, a valve (which allows you to control the temperature inside the vehicle) then into the evaporator coils, which the cabin fan blows the air through and it comes out cold! The refrigerant, which is now back in gas form returns to the compressor and circulates once more.
What happens if the Air Conditioning Gas is low?
As the amount of refrigerant drops, the process becomes less efficient and the pressure in the system reduces so less and less of it is circulating and the cooling process is reduced. Eventually you will end up with air no colder than when the system was switched off.
How do I know Air Conditioning system needs regassing?
As described above, as the level drops in the system it becomes less efficient and the ice cold air you enjoyed becomes warmer. If this is gradual, it’s just a case of having the system regassed, however if this occurs immediately it may be the case that one of the elements has sprung a leak and this would need to be investigated prior to regassing.
So what needs to be done?
In the majority of cases, the system can be regassed by a professional, who has the relevant certifications for handling refrigerant, in under an hour. They will first check the system pressure and check for leaks before using a sophisticated machine to add refrigerant to the correct pressure though the input valve.
Which type of refrigerant do I need, I see there are two?
Most cars built prior to 2017 will have what is known as R134A. This was phased out to comply with environmental standards (to reduce its impact on the ozone layer) and replaced by R1234YF.
The general rule of thumb is that in most cases a vehicle built before 2016 will be R134A and those after 2017 will be R1234YF - in between though is a grey are and we suggest you contact us if unsure. However, if you open your bonnet most cars will have a yellow sticker telling you what gas is used.
What happens during an Air Conditioning Regas?
The process may differ slightly between vehicles but generally the mechanic will do the following;
- Visually inspect the system for leaks
- Hook their refrigerant machine up to the system
- Measure the pressure (quantity) of refrigerant in the system
- Top the system up to the recommended amount
- Test the system for its operation
What does the quote for Air Conditioning Regas cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your air conditioning regas will cover;
- The cost of the mechanic to check the system
- The refrigerant
- Post regas checks
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Air conditioning regas (R134a Gas ONLY)
Air conditioning regas (R1234yf Gas ONLY)
How much does a brake disc replacement cost?
The earlier R134a is much cheaper than the later R1234YF refrigerant, to find out the latest prices for the work, please visit https://www.clickmechanic.com/
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the Air Conditioning system is leaking?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle.