Air Conditioning Hissing Sound

[BillNick]

Hi all,

Although I don't get much of a chance to use it with our outstanding weather ;-), I have noticed this summer that my Air-Con is not as cold as it used to be. I am of course contemplating a re-gas, but it has now started hissing loudly through the dash when I turn it on. Could somebody please confirm these are tell tale signs of needing a re-gas? Could the hissing be something more serious?

Of course it is kept turned off until I get it sorted.

Any tips on cheapest place for a gassing?

Thanks

Bill

[The Transporter]

Yep, that's a damned good clue that you may need a recharge... Normally when correctly charged, liquid refrigerant is forced through the expansion valve and is silent but when you are down to the last gasp of refrigerant then refrigerant gas or vapour is passing through the valve giving the hissing that you can hear (Behind the glove box, right?).... Your aircon compressor is lubricated by lubricant carried by the liquid refrigerant, no liquid equals no lubrication equals wrecked compressor equals big repair bill. Get it sorted.

Generally speaking if it is cheap, then it will cost you, find someone locally who knows his stuff.

[BillNick]

Cheers. I have booked in at Kwik-Fit £45inc VAT. I don't normally touch them with a barge pole but they offer a refund if it is unsuccessful.

I have only had the AC on whilst hissing for a max of like 1-2 mins, just whilst I have been listening and diagnosing. So hopefully I haven't done the compressor any damage.

It shall remain off until Sat when it's getting a recharge.

Cheers for advice. :-)