Frequently asked questions

There are a few common questions people like to know the answers to regarding their vehicle air conditioning. We answer some of them here for you.

For car, van and all vehicle air con maintenance in Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and throughout the West Midlands, remember to call Roadchill.

Why do I need maintenance for my air conditioning?

Air conditioning systems are a sealed system, requiring specialist maintenance. As such, problems will occur somewhere down the line, so maintenance is advised to put right any potential issue.

How does vehicle air conditioning work?

Air conditioning systems are pressurised using a refrigerant, just like a fridge. Hot, pressurised refrigerant gas is forced into the condenser, where it is cooled back into a liquid. It is then heated in an evaporator just enough to turn into a low-temperature gas, air passing over the evaporator is cooled and enters the car through the vents in the dashboard.

Why does my system need regular maintenance?

Regular maintenance is recommended to prevent compressor failure due to insufficient refrigerant in the system and keep the system working efficiently. If your air con system loses gas it is because there is a leak, this will show up during a routine regas. Leaking R134a (AC gas) into the atmosphere has an environmental impact due to its high GWP (Global Warming Potential) and it will remain in the atmosphere for up to 14 years, for this reason it is important to detect and prevent air con leaks