Why Isn't My Car's AC Cold?
Air conditioning systems lose refrigerant gas naturally over time — roughly 10–15% per year through microscopic leaks in hoses and seals. After two or three years, most cars have lost enough gas that the AC blows warm or barely cool air, especially on hot days.
A recharge (also called a regas) refills the refrigerant to the correct level, restoring full cooling performance. It's one of the quickest, most affordable services we offer.
What's Included in Our AC Service?
- Full refrigerant evacuation of the old gas
- System pressure test to check for leaks
- Recharge with the correct type and quantity of refrigerant
- System performance test (temperature check at vents)
- Cabin filter check (replacement quoted separately if needed)
Signs Your AC Needs a Recharge
- Air from the vents isn't as cold as it used to be
- AC only cools properly at higher fan speeds
- The AC smells musty or strange when first turned on
- The compressor clicks on and off rapidly (sign of low gas)
- It's been 2+ years since your last recharge
How Often Should I Recharge My Car's AC?
Most manufacturers recommend a regas every 2 years as part of routine maintenance, even if you haven't noticed a problem. Keeping the refrigerant at the correct level protects the compressor and ensures the system works efficiently when you need it most.
What Refrigerant Does My Car Use?
Most cars made before 2017 use R134a refrigerant. Cars made from 2017 onwards typically use R1234yf, which is more environmentally friendly but slightly more expensive. We stock both and will use whichever your vehicle requires — we check before starting the job so there are no surprises.
If you're unsure which type your car uses, don't worry — it's stamped on a label under your bonnet near the AC service port, and we'll identify it for you.
Can I Recharge My Own Car's AC?
DIY AC recharge kits are available in shops, but they carry real risks. Overfilling the refrigerant is as harmful as underfilling — it causes the compressor to work too hard and can lead to expensive failures. Kits also don't remove moisture or old gas first, which can damage internal seals. A professional recharge evacuates the old refrigerant completely before refilling to the exact weight specified for your vehicle.
Does AC Recharge Fix a Leak?
If there's a significant leak, a recharge will only last weeks or months before the gas escapes again. During our service, we pressure test the system and check for obvious leak points. If we find one, we'll quote you for the repair separately — we won't just top it up and send you on your way.
Same-Day Service in Ashford
Most AC recharges take around 30–45 minutes. We aim to offer same-day appointments for this service — just give us a call on 07341 216705 to check availability, or use our online booking form.
Serving Ashford, Feltham, Staines & the Surrounding Area
We're based at 32–34 Feltham Road, Ashford TW15 1DH — easy to reach from Feltham (TW13), Staines-upon-Thames (TW18), Sunbury-on-Thames (TW16), Bedfont (TW14), Stanwell (TW19) and Shepperton (TW17). Free parking on site.