A guide to air conditioning recharge
Thursday 30th January 2025
Is the air conditioning in your car not as effective as it once was? Or has it stopped working completely? Is there a funny smell coming from the vents? You likely need an air con recharge.
But what is an air conditioning recharge? What does regas mean? And why does your car’s air conditioning system need it?
Find out more below.
Why is my car’s air conditioning important?
In the height of summer, you can feel hot and sticky as the heat lingers and crave the pure relief of a nice cold blast from your car’s air vents. And don’t forget in winter, when you rush into the driver’s seat, fingers frozen, windshield foggy and all you crave is warmth!
But imagine if your AC could only blow out a few weak and hesitant puffs of air. How miserable you would feel. Your car’s air conditioning should be used in every season. The regular circulation of air keeps your car’s internal system functioning properly.
Apart from regulating the temperature and making your drive more comfortable, your car’s AC also:
- cleans the air you breathe inside your car: It filters out pollen, dust and pollutants
- reduces humidity: This prevents mould and bacteria growth
- keeps you alert: A blast of cold air can reduce drowsiness while driving
- helps you see: The air con removes the mist on your windscreen (which is most notable in the winter)
Just like your tyres, brakes and engine, the air conditioning in your car needs regular maintenance.
How does my car’s air conditioning work?
There are 9 parts to your car’s air con system:
- refrigerant (gas)
- compressor (where the gas is pressurised)
- condenser
- receiver
- expansion valve
- evaporator
- drier
- blower motor
- vents
As you turn on the AC, the refrigerant (gas) is pressurised by the compressor which also raises the temperature of the refrigerant. The gas then flows into the condenser. The temperature then drops again as fresh air reaches the condenser, which causes the gas inside to turn into a liquid. This then passes through the receiver which removes any dirt before it reaches the expansion valve. The evaporator then transforms the liquid back into a vapour – this is the cold air you feel in the car.
Think of the recent times you’ve had to defrost your car, the air pumps through in a few minutes to get you on your travels safely. It’s the same when you need some relief from the heat in the sunnier months too. After consistent use, don’t take your air conditioning for granted, it needs to be cared for too.
What is an air conditioning recharge?
When it’s time to fix your car’s air conditioning, this is called a recharge, regas or de-mist. Essentially, a new ‘gas’ is added to your car’s AC system to help it work properly again.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t included in your normal car service, but if you have any issues with your air conditioning, it’s a good idea to book a recharge.
How do I know if my air conditioning needs regassing?
There are a few signs which suggest your car might need an air con regas:
- the air blowing from your car’s vents isn’t as cold as it used to be
- the air con is running but the car temperature feels no different
- your air con system simply isn’t working (there might not be any gas left)
- your air con isn’t clearing your windscreen effectively in colder weather
How long does an air con regas take?
Recharging your car’s air conditioning usually takes 45 minutes.
How often should my air conditioning be recharged?
Your car’s handbook should tell you how often this is required, but a general rule of thumb is every 2 years.
What does an air conditioning clean do?
We recommend you book an air conditioning clean once a year to keep the air purified. At Formula One Autocentres, if you book your air con clean and de-mist together it costs just £69, saving you £9.
An air con clean service:
- removes 99% of harmful bacteria, mould and fungi which has built up in your air con
- beneficial for people who have breathing difficulties, sensitive respiratory systems or are prone to pollen allergies
- leaves your car interior clean and fresh
Can I recharge my car’s air conditioning at home?
It’s not recommended. Regas kits are available for you to purchase, and although they seem cheaper, you could end up with costly repairs if you get it wrong. Refrigerant can also cause irritation or injury if not handled correctly.
It’s best to speak with expert technicians who can do this service quickly, thoroughly and safely.
Air conditioning de-mist and clean at Formula One Autocentres
Book in now for an air con de-mist at your local Formula One Autocentre and get your air con clean at the same time for just £10!
If you’re worried about your air conditioning system or have any other concerns about your car, get in touch with our experts to put your mind at ease.
