Car AC Recharge Kit Improve AC Performance

It’s hot out, and the AC in your car isn’t working. This is a common problem, and can be easily fixed by a licensed mechanic. If you’re trying to save money, though, you may be tempted to try a car ac recharge kit. These kits are inexpensive, and claim to fix the problem in a few easy steps. But can they really improve your car’s AC performance?

Car air conditioning systems use a chemical called refrigerant, or “Freon,” to create cold air. This chemical circulates through the system in a closed loop, and it changes from a liquid to a gas at certain points during the cooling cycle. Over time, it can lose pressure or leak out completely. The resulting low refrigerant level can cause the AC system to shut down or stop producing cold air altogether. Recharging the system brings back this lost refrigerant, and can restore proper operation to the system.

The problem is, these DIY a/c recharge kit for car rarely work as advertised. Most of them contain “gimmicky” additives that are designed to do other things than just cool your car. These additives, usually referred to as “stop leak” or “seal conditioners,” can actually cause harm. They clog and obstruct vital AC components, and can lead to further damage. Most professional shops avoid using these gimmicky additives, and will instead buy large cans of pure refrigerant to use in the repair process.

Can a Car AC Recharge Kit Improve AC Performance?

First, you need to determine which type of refrigerant your car uses. Typically, this will be found on an under-hood sticker. Once you know which type of refrigerant is needed, you can purchase a hose and a can of the correct type at any auto parts store. Usually, the cost of the refrigerant will be less than $50.

Once you have the hose and refrigerant ready, you need to find your car’s AC compressor ports. These are the barb-like fittings sticking out of the metal AC lines under the hood. There should be two ports, one that’s thicker and one that’s thinner. You want the low-pressure port, which is on the larger pipe. Most recharge kits include a hookup that only fits onto the low-pressure port, making it easier to find.

With the hose attached to the port, you can start charging the AC system. To do so, you need to make sure that the compressor clutch is spinning, and that the system is at the right temperature. As you add refrigerant, you’ll need to shake the can slightly every 3 to 4 seconds, and monitor the pressure gauge frequently. Continue adding refrigerant until the gauge reads the desired PSI for your car’s ambient temperature.

You’ll also need to be careful not to overcharge your AC system. If you add too much, the system will shut down, and will need to be serviced by a licensed mechanic. To prevent this, you can measure the pressure with a simple gauge that comes in most recharge kits. If the pressure is too high, it’s likely due to a leak in the system.