The bottom line? While some AC maintenance can be done by a savvy homeowner, it's still necessary to have an expert technician check the system periodically. Dr. Kirby suggests a service in the spring before the cooling season and then again in the fall before the heating season.
Fixing your own A/C system, especially refrigerant-related issues, is not recommended. Refrigerant handling requires expertise and compliance with safety regulations. DIY attempts can lead to injury, system damage, and environmental harm.
While some minor air conditioning tasks like cleaning or replacing air filters can be done yourself, more complex repairs involving electrical components, refrigerant levels, or mechanical issues should be left to professionals.
A certified mechanic should perform this service. Then, once the AC system is clean, they'll fill it with fresh refrigerant correctly and in the proper amounts. DIY recharging kits don't work on some cars - Many AC recharger cans are filled with R-134a refrigerant.
An air conditioner tune-up typically includes but is not limited to cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, replacing the air filter, checking ductwork for leaks or blockages, testing the thermostat, examining electrical components, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting the condensate drain.
A professional AC recharge typically ranges from $150 to $300. This cost reflects the expertise required and the equipment used to ensure a proper recharge. On the other hand, a DIY recharge kit costs between $40 and $60. While this is a more affordable option, it requires careful handling to avoid issues.
The duration of an AC tune-up varies depending on the complexity of the system. However, it typically takes between 1-2 hours. To keep your HVAC system running efficiently, you should schedule routine maintenance at least once a year. This will help prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your equipment.
An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.
One of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs a Freon recharge is that your vehicle will be blowing warm air, even after your vehicle has been running for some time. If your refrigerant gets too low, there will simply not be enough “coolant” to cool the air as it is passed through your evaporator coil.
Your vehicle's air-conditioning not working is likely caused by a failing compressor or a freon leak. While these are the most obvious reasons for your air-conditioning not working inside your vehicle, it might be anything as simple as a bad belt or a dirty cabin air filter.
It would be wise to schedule an auto AC service at least once a year. Some auto technicians may recommend service twice a year—in the fall after summer's hot temperatures and before winter arrives, and then in the spring before summer's heart attacks.
Cleaning Vital Components
Air conditioning units function best when their parts are clean. So, what does an AC tune-up include when it comes to cleaning? Often, the technician will clean condenser and evaporator coils, blower components, the drain line, and other essential parts.
You can save about $100 in labor costs by doing the car ac recharge job yourself. Stop at any auto parts store and pick up an R-134a A/C recharging kit. I used the A/C Pro Recharge Kit product because it came with a reusable gauge and a quick-connect fitting, and the refrigerant contained a seal conditioner additive.
Experienced DIYers can typically handle cleaning condenser and evaporator coils, and may be able to clear a blocked condensate drain line, but it's recommended to contact an air conditioner repair professional to replace a faulty compressor or recharge refrigerant levels.
Freon is contained within your vehicle's AC system, as in completely confined within, so Freon's loss isn't through consumption but through leaks that eventually develop within hoses and connections.
If a recharge is possible, the cost to have your car's AC system recharged is typically between $250 and $500.
A Question of Supply and Demand
Even though Freon is still being produced, the supply has dwindled as producers have cut back in anticipation of lower demand. Therefore, maintenance people and air conditioning system specialists have less supply and are charging more for it.
Before releasing the refrigerant into the port, turn on the vehicle and turn the AC on to its max temperature.
No, you should not try to tune up your AC unit on your own. To properly perform an AC tune-up, an HVAC technician is required.
Low refrigerant in the unit can be completed in just a couple hours. However, other issues can take much longer. For example, a broken compressor can take most of the day for a technician to fix. If there is broken ductwork, the project can actually take a few days to tackle.