Best Site 2024 in Auto Express Awards
For the 10th year we have been named Best online tyre retailer by Auto Express - buy today to discover why.
Tyre Guarantee: Protection for £9.99 per tyre
For the 10th year we have been named Best online tyre retailer by Auto Express - buy today to discover why.
0% interest for up to 12 months on Michelin tyres with PayPal Credit when you spend £500 or more.
For £9.99 per tyre our Tyre Guarantee covers accidental damage, punctures and bulges. T&Cs apply.
When you are selecting your tyres and the tyre fitting centre, you will see the different additional services that they also provide.
Once you select a fitting date for your tyre fitting, they will be available for you to select from the available additional services at the basket stage - such as an air con recharge.
The time required for additional services varies, your garage will confirm pickup time when you drop off your vehicle.
Select which tyres you need from the wide range of available options stocked in the Blackcircles.com catalogue.
Choose the best fitting centre for you. You can select the time and date from one of the 2,200 tyre fitting centres on our nationwide network.
Once you reached the basket, you will be presented with the additional services available to book at the fitting centre, such as an air con recharge.
When you order new tyres, these are paid for at the time of your order. However, air con recharges are separate from your order with Blackcircles.com. You will therefore need to pay for your air con recharge at the garage - on the day of your appointment.
An air con recharge, also known as air conditioning service or refill, involves replenishing the refrigerant gas in your car's air conditioning system. This gas, crucial for the system to produce cold air, can deplete over time or leak from the system. Unlike parts of an MOT test, which assess vehicle safety aspects, an air con recharge ensures your comfort while driving, especially during warmer months.
It's important to note that an air con recharge isn't typically included in standard car maintenance schedules or MOT tests, as it's not deemed safety critical. However, it is essential for maintaining good air conditioning performance and driving comfort.
It's important to recognise the signs that your car's air conditioning system may need a recharge. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
1. Reduced Cooling Efficiency: The most obvious sign is that your car isn't cooling as effectively as it used to. If the air that comes out is only slightly cooler than the outside or feels warm, it's likely time for a recharge.
2. AC Blows Warm Air: Initially, it might blow cold air that gradually becomes warm. This can indicate a low refrigerant level, which is often due to leaks or natural depletion over time.
3. Unusual Noises When AC Is On: If you hear rattling or banging sounds when you turn on the air conditioning, it could be a sign of problems inside the system, such as loose brackets or even issues with the compressor, which may need more than just a recharge.
4. Visible Signs of Refrigerant Leaks: Sometimes, you might notice signs of leakage inside the engine compartment or under the car. Refrigerant oil is greasy and can usually be seen on AC hoses, pipes or fittings.
5. Unusual Smell from Vents: While this could indicate a need for a simple cabin filter change, it can also suggest that the AC system isn’t functioning efficiently, possibly due to low refrigerant levels causing excess moisture build-up.
Maintain your vehicle’s air conditioning unit with a recharge, as over time the gases vital to the function of the air condition unit, can leak and deplete – causing the system to become inefficient.
This additional service involves the replenishment of the system’s refrigerant gas and lubricant reapplied.
Air conditioning recharge typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, but it can vary depending on the system's capacity and any additional issues that need addressing.
A well-maintained system may not require recharging for several years. If your AC is losing refrigerant frequently, it's best to have it inspected for leaks.
Yes, an air condition recharge is worth it - especially if your AC isn't cooling properly. A recharge of your AC can help to optimise and restore cooling performance - leading to greater comfort. However, it is important to note that you should have the unit checked for any underlying issues if refrigerant loss is frequent.
It is not recommended to regas your system yourself. As regassing involves adding refrigerant to your AC system - it should be performed by a qualified mechanic to make sure that it is done both safely and effectively.
Typically, a regas will take around 30 to 45 minutes, but the time can vary based on the system's requirements.