Accident Repair Centre

Air Conditioning Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How often should my air conditioning system be serviced?

A. Every 2 years to ensure it operates at maximum efficiency. If you let the system run low on refrigerant the compressor has to work twice as hard and will therefore wear out in half the time. Air Conditioning is not normally serviced with your annual car service.

Q. How often should I run the air conditioning in my car?

A. All the time on hot or cold depending on the outside temperature. This will ensure that the rubber seals and gaskets in your system don't dry out and crack thereby causing leaks. Run your system for a few minutes every week at the very least. Contrary to popular belief it does not greatly reduce your mpg, the drag created by having a window open can reduce your mpg more than running the air conditioning.

Q. When I switch on my air conditioning I get a smelly 'pong' inside the car, what causes it and how do I get rid of it?

A. It's micro organisms that collect on the evaporator behind the dashboard and the fan blows these nasties into your face causing allergic reactions, coughs, sneezes and sore throats. We can treat your air conditioning system and kill them off.

Q. Why does my car air conditioning system run low on refrigerant?

A. All the pipes and connections on your air conditioning system are naturally slightly porous so you lose anything up to 20% of the gas every year due to natural leakage.

Q. If the gas leaks into the passenger compartment of my car can it be dangerous?

A. No, the modern refrigerant is called R134a, is not harmful to health and is not an explosive gas. It is also environmentally friendly unlike the old refrigerant gas R12 which was phased out from 1993.

Q. What is included in the air conditioning service?

A. The following items:

· Recovery of refrigerant.

· Evacuation of air and moisture from the system.

· Vacuum leak test.

· Recharging to recommended levels, adding fresh system oil.

· Air-conditioning cleaner to clear bacterial build up and remove any unpleasant smells.