Refrigerant Recharge

Expert service in Atascadero · Honest diagnostics · Quality parts

Signs Your Vehicle Needs This Service

Air from the vents is cool but not cold enough even on maximum AC setting, indicating refrigerant charge has dropped below the level needed to achieve designed cooling capacity
AC that cools normally when first started but gradually becomes warmer as the vehicle sits in traffic or ambient temperature rises, pointing to a marginally undercharged system
AC system that was recently inspected and confirmed leak-free but has not been recharged since a previous leak repair was completed
AC system that was evacuated for another repair, since any repair that opens the refrigerant circuit requires full evacuation and recharge after the repair is completed
No record of AC refrigerant service on a high-mileage vehicle with gradually declining cooling performance over several years

Refrigerant Recharge

System Evacuation and Recovery

We recover all existing refrigerant from the system using certified recovery equipment. The recovered quantity is measured and recorded, and the difference from the specified charge confirms whether a leak must be addressed before recharging.

Leak Confirmation Prior to Recharge

We confirm the system is not currently losing refrigerant before adding refrigerant. If the system shows evidence of an active leak, we address the leak repair before completing the recharge.

Deep System Vacuum

We pull a deep vacuum on the evacuated system to remove moisture from the refrigerant circuit before recharging. Moisture in an AC system converts to acid under operating conditions, which attacks seals, o-rings, and compressor components.

Precision Refrigerant Recharge

We recharge the system using the refrigerant type specified for your vehicle and the exact charge weight specified by the manufacturer. Correct refrigerant type and precise charge weight are essential for both cooling performance and component longevity.

Post-Recharge Performance Verification

After recharging, we measure vent temperature at the dashboard registers and confirm the system is achieving the cooling capacity expected for the current ambient temperature before returning the vehicle.

What to Expect: Typical Service Times

System evacuation and refrigerant recovery: 20 to 30 minutes
Leak confirmation check: 15 to 30 minutes
Deep vacuum pull: 30 to 45 minutes
Precision refrigerant recharge: 15 to 30 minutes
Post-recharge vent temperature verification: 15 to 20 minutes

How Our Technicians Approach a Refrigerant Recharge

When a vehicle comes in for a recharge, we begin by recovering the existing refrigerant and measuring the recovered quantity. If the recovered amount is significantly below the specified charge, we investigate whether the leak has already been repaired or whether a new leak search is needed before proceeding.

We pull the system into a deep vacuum for a minimum of 30 minutes to remove moisture. We then hold the vacuum and observe the gauge for any rise in pressure, which would indicate a leak in the system that would need to be addressed before charging.

We recharge the system using a certified refrigerant scale to ensure the correct weight is added rather than relying on pressure readings, which vary with temperature and ambient conditions. After completing the charge, we measure vent temperature under specific conditions to confirm the system is performing within its designed cooling capacity.

We document the refrigerant type used, the quantity added, and the post-charge vent temperature for your service record.

More A/C Services

Why Choose APS Automotive

Honest Diagnostics

We tell you exactly what's wrong and what it takes to fix it. Nothing more, nothing less. No upselling, no surprise charges.

Quality Parts & Warranty

We use only trusted brands and back our work with a solid warranty, giving you peace of mind long after you drive away.

Fast Turnaround

We know you need your vehicle. Our efficient workflow gets you back behind the wheel as quickly as possible without cutting corners.

ASE Certified Technicians

Our 2 ASE-certified technicians bring real expertise. We're also California-licensed smog technicians serving Atascadero since 1992.

Transparent Pricing

You'll receive a detailed estimate before we begin any work. We respect your budget and will never start without your approval.

Clear Communication

No confusing jargon. Just straightforward explanations of what your vehicle needs and why. We're educators, not salespeople.

Ready to Schedule Service?

Request an appointment. We're open Monday through Friday, 7:30am – 5:30pm.

(805) 461-5823

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