Air condition time. Get your a/c checked! Starts with a full system check
Chris Web • June 10, 2025
Air Conditioning time. Dont get caught in the heat.
Alright, let’s run through a full A/C system check without the bullet points—straight-up shop style, no frills.
Start with a full visual inspection. Look over the compressor, clutch, lines, condenser, and evaporator for any signs of damage, leaks, or wear. If UV dye was added before, shine a UV light to spot any leaks—usually bright green or yellow residue. Don’t forget to check the drive belt for cracks or dry rot, especially if it's old.
Next, hook up your manifold gauges to the high and low sides of the system. Compare the pressure readings to an A/C pressure chart based on ambient temp. For example, at around 80°F, you should see about 45 psi on the low side and around 225 psi on the high side. If the numbers are off, you're likely dealing with low refrigerant, a restriction, or a weak compressor.
If the system is low, pull a vacuum to get rid of moisture and air. Then recharge with the correct amount and type of refrigerant—usually R-134a or R-1234yf, depending on the vehicle. Overcharging or undercharging both wreck cooling performance, so hit that sweet spot.
Test the compressor function by turning on the A/C and checking that the clutch engages. If it doesn’t, check the fuses, relays, pressure switches, or look for a refrigerant pressure issue that’s keeping it from kicking on.
Measure the cabin vent temp with a digital thermometer. With the A/C on max, in recirculate mode, and the fan on high, you want to see something in the 40 to 50°F range. Warmer than that? There’s a problem somewhere in the system.
Check the blower operation too. Make sure all the fan speeds work and listen for any weird noises—grinding, squealing, or ticking could point to a bad motor or debris stuck in the fan.
Finally, take a sniff test from the vents. If there’s a funky, musty smell, there might be mold on the evaporator. In that case, spray in a disinfecting foam cleaner and consider replacing the cabin air filter. Customers will appreciate breathing cleaner air, especially in summer traffic.
If you want to go the extra mile or upsell, offer a cabin filter replacement, add UV dye for future leak detection, or hit it with an A/C refresher spray to eliminate any lingering odors. If you have any questions, please call our service department 973-729-3938
