AC Recharge and Leak Inspection Service Costs
Basic AC Recharge
A basic AC recharge service typically takes about 1 hour to complete and includes:
- System pressure testing
- Refrigerant recharge
- Basic system performance check
Estimated Labor Cost:$125 (1 hour)
Refrigerant Cost:$50-$100 (varies by vehicle and amount needed)
Total Estimated Cost:$175-$225
AC Leak Inspection
A comprehensive leak inspection typically requires 1-2 hours and includes:
- UV dye injection
- Pressure testing
- Visual inspection
- Electronic leak detection
Estimated Labor Cost:$125-$250 (1-2 hours)
Materials (dye, etc.):$30-$50
Total Estimated Cost:$155-$300
Please note: These are estimated costs. Final pricing may vary depending on your vehicle's specific needs and the complexity of the repair. Additional repairs, if needed, will be quoted separately after the inspection.
AC Recharge Service Procedure
Step 1: Initial System Check
Technician performs a visual inspection of all AC components and checks the current refrigerant pressure using specialized gauges.
Step 2: Recover Remaining Refrigerant
Any existing refrigerant in the system is safely recovered using EPA-approved equipment to prevent environmental damage.
Step 3: Vacuum Test
The system is placed under vacuum to remove air and moisture, which helps identify potential leaks and ensures system cleanliness.
Step 4: Refrigerant Addition
The correct type and amount of refrigerant is added according to manufacturer specifications using professional charging equipment.
Step 5: Performance Testing
System is tested to ensure proper pressure levels and cooling performance.
AC Leak Inspection Procedure
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Technician examines all AC components, hoses, and connections for signs of oil residue or obvious damage.
Step 2: UV Dye Test
Special ultraviolet dye is introduced into the system, and UV light is used to trace the path of any leaks.
Step 3: Electronic Leak Detection
Advanced electronic leak detectors are used to identify even tiny leaks that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Step 4: Pressure Test
System is pressurized with nitrogen to verify leak locations and check system integrity.
Step 5: Documentation
All identified leak points are documented and a repair plan is created based on the findings.
Note: Both services are performed by certified technicians using professional-grade equipment to ensure your vehicle's AC system functions properly and efficiently.
AC Recharge and Leak Inspection
What is an AC Recharge
An AC recharge is the process of replenishing your vehicle's air conditioning system with fresh refrigerant (commonly known as Freon). Over time, refrigerant levels can naturally decrease, reducing your AC's cooling efficiency. During a recharge service, our certified technicians will:
- Remove any remaining old refrigerant
- Add the correct amount of new refrigerant according to manufacturer specifications
- Test the system's cooling performance
What is an AC Leak Inspection
An AC leak inspection is a diagnostic service that identifies any points where refrigerant might be escaping from your vehicle's air conditioning system. This service is crucial because:
- Low refrigerant levels are often caused by leaks rather than normal depletion
- Simply recharging without fixing leaks is a temporary and costly solution
- Refrigerant leaks can harm the environment
During a leak inspection, technicians will:
- Use specialized UV dyes and detection equipment to locate leaks
- Inspect all AC components, including hoses, connections, and the compressor
- Pressure test the system to verify its integrity
- Provide a detailed report of findings and necessary repairs
Signs You Need These Services:
- Warm air coming from your AC vents
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- AC system making unusual noises
- Visible refrigerant leaks or oil stains near AC components
- AC system hasn't been serviced in several years
Regular AC maintenance, including recharge and leak inspections, helps ensure optimal cooling performance and can prevent more costly repairs in the future.
Common AC System Failure Symptoms: Signs You Need Recharge or Leak Inspection
AC Recharge Service
Signs Your AC Needs Recharging:
- Warm Air: Air coming from vents isn't as cold as it used to be
- Longer Cooling Times: System takes longer than usual to cool your home
- Higher Energy Bills: AC working harder than normal, resulting in increased electricity usage
- Ice Formation: Visible ice on refrigerant lines or evaporator coil
Typical Service Schedule: Most systems don't require regular recharging unless there's a leak. A properly maintained AC system should maintain its refrigerant level (charge) indefinitely. If you need frequent recharges, this indicates a leak that should be addressed.
AC Leak Inspection
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak:
- Hissing Sounds: Audible noise near AC components
- Oil Spots: Visible oil residue around connections (refrigerant contains oil)
- Frequent Recharging: System requiring refrigerant top-ups more than once per season
- Inconsistent Cooling: Fluctuating cooling performance
- Bubbling or Gurgling Sounds: Unusual noises from the AC unit
Recommended Inspection Schedule: Annual leak inspections are recommended as part of routine maintenance, typically performed during spring tune-ups. However, if you notice any of the above signs, immediate inspection is warranted regardless of the maintenance schedule.
Note: Refrigerant leaks should always be addressed promptly as they can lead to system damage and are harmful to the environment.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
