There are several symptoms that warn you that your air conditioning system is faulty or not cooling well enough. Here’s how to tell if your car is running out of freon and what to do if it happens.
The car’s air conditioning system is essential to ensure the thermal comfort of the driver and passengers of a car.
It can also prove very useful when there is a temperature difference that causes condensation to form in the car. To prevent fogging of the windows, we can turn on the air conditioning, even at a neutral or warm temperature.
How to use the air conditioning system
Most of the time, when we say air conditioning we think of hot summer days, when we want the car to be as cool as possible.
But the air conditioning (AC) system can be used all year round. On hot days, it can be used to cool the car. And when it’s cold or it’s a rainy day, to prevent the formation of condensation on the windows.
But, for the air conditioning system to work in optimal parameters, drivers must make sure that the car has enough freon.
How do you know you’re running out of freon in your car?
Freon is a liquid without which the car cooling system cannot function. If its level is low, the air will not be able to be effectively cooled before it reaches the interior of the car.
In fact, this is the first indication that you are running out of freon in your car. Quite simply, no matter how cold you set the system, warm air will enter the cockpit. In addition, in some cars it is possible to hear a grinding noise from the area of the compressor, located under the dashboard.
You may also find that ice has built up on the compressor. This means that the cooling system does not have enough freon. Because as the amount of freon decreases, the moisture in the AC system accumulates and freezes.
And then the area around the compressor becomes greasy, it’s another sign that the cooling system has problems. If the system experiences freon leaks, it will not function properly. And after a few months you may need to reload the system.
How much does a freon charge cost in 2024
Air conditioning overhaul is more expensive in 2024 compared to last year.
„That’s about a 20% increase in the price of freon. There are two types of coolant, one classic and one eco. The classic one is intended for older cars, and the eco freon is used for cars built after 2014”, mechanic Robert Marin explained to ProMotor.
And the price difference between the two types of freon is significant.
„Classic freon costs 30-35 lei / 100 grams, and ecological freon 1234YF starts from 130 lei / 100 grams and even reaches 250 lei. And to make a “full” of freon you will need 500-750 grams, depending on the car“, said the mechanic.
And to these costs we also add labor, which starts at 50 lei.
So, if it will be necessary to fully charge the system with freon, in the best case you “get away” with only 200 lei. But, if the car is a new generation and you need half a liter of freon, then all the “fun” will cost you at least 700 lei.
In general, the air conditioning system should be checked at least once every 2-3 years. And, only if necessary, a freon refill will be made.
But, if you notice that the car no longer cools well, you must go to the service to see if there is a problem with the air conditioning system or if it just needs to be topped up with freon.
Source: www.promotor.ro
