Aircon Regas: Everything You Need to Know About Automotive Air Conditioning

At Polar Motion, based in Boksburg, we specialize in professional aircon regassing and servicing for all types of vehicles from as little as R450 for a regas. Whether your car has lost its cool or needs a routine check-up, our expert team ensures your system is running at peak performance. Contact us here to book your service today.

When the summer heat kicks in, nothing is more frustrating than stepping into your car and realizing the air conditioning isn’t cooling properly. One of the most common solutions to this problem is an aircon regas. But what exactly does that mean, and when should you get it done?

What is an Aircon Regas?

An aircon regas is the process of refilling your vehicle’s air conditioning system with refrigerant gas. This gas is responsible for cooling the air that gets circulated inside your car.Over time, a car’s air conditioning system naturally loses small amounts of refrigerant through hoses, seals and connections through the process of permeation. Slow leaks can also cause a system to lose its refrigerant over time and can range from a few weeks to a few years, which causes your aircon to lose efficiency.

Signs You Need an Aircon Regas

Not sure if your car needs one? Look out for these common signs:

Warm air from vents: If your AC is blowing warm or less cool air than before, it’s a clear indicator.
Cold air from half the vents: The cool air is only coming through the passenger or driver vents and the other side is warm.
Unusual smells: A musty or damp odor could signal aircon issues, sometimes linked to low refrigerant.
Noisy system: Strange noises when the AC is on may suggest your system is struggling.
Hissing Noise: You can hear a hissing noise in the car.
Poor fuel economy: A low refrigerant level can cause your AC to work harder, increasing fuel consumption.

Why is an Aircon service Important?

Getting a regular aircon regas keeps your air conditioning system running efficiently. Benefits include:

Comfortable driving: Especially during hot weather.
De-mist windshield: Clearing mist from the windscreen in the rain works best with the aircon.
System protection: Prevents damage to the compressor and other aircon parts. The return line needs to be cold in order to cool the compressor. If your refrigerant is low the returning low pressure line is not cold and speeds up compressor wear.
Better fuel efficiency: A well working system won’t overwork the engine. Once the car is cool enough the thermostat turns off the aircon until needed again, thus saving fuel.
Healthier air quality: Ensures cleaner, fresher air circulation inside your vehicle.

How Often Should You Regas Your Car’s Aircon?

Most automotive experts recommend an aircon regas every 18–24 months, depending on usage and driving conditions.

Here at Polar Motion we believe it can go longer than 24 months under normal driving conditions but still advise to come in for a free checkup just to make sure everything is still in good working order.

Can You Drive your car with low refrigerant?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Driving with low refrigerant won’t just make your car uncomfortable—it can also put strain on the AC compressor, leading to expensive repairs in the long run. As stated above, an aircon systems returning gas on the low pressure side is usually cold when the system is full. If the system is low on gas that low pressure side is not cold and can cause the compressor/pump to overheat as there is no other cooling available causing premature wear.

Final Thoughts

A timely aircon regas is a small maintenance step that makes a big difference. It keeps your car cool, comfortable, and efficient—while also saving you money on fuel and potential repairs. If your vehicle’s air conditioning isn’t performing as it should, it might be time to book an aircon regas service. Contact us today to schedule your appointment in Boksburg.