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How do you fix a car’s overcharged AC system?

My car’s air conditioning wasn’t working the way it should, so I added more refrigerant to it myself. I think I must have done something wrong by adding too much, because now it’s just blowing hot air. How do I fix this?

avatar
Melanie Mergen · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Yikes! Refrigerants are hazardous materials that need to be handled and disposed of properly, so it’s best to have a mechanic correct an overcharged AC system for you. They’ll be able to use the proper machine to remove the excess refrigerant.
To fix your overcharged AC system, a
mechanic
will typically use a machine that uses vacuums to remove or bleed excess coolant from the AC. As it runs, the machine will monitor pressure levels, and once they return to normal ranges, your mechanic will know there’s an acceptable amount of refrigerant in the AC system again. The machine contains the extra coolant so it can be reused later.
If your car’s
AC system
is overcharged or has too much refrigerant in it, this is something you’ll want to take care of soon.
It can seem counterintuitive, but too much refrigerant in your car’s AC system can create too much pressure and heat, which could be why yours is now blowing out hot hair. If left unaddressed, an overcharged AC system in your car can damage the AC compressor.
After making sure your air conditioning system is back to normal, you may also want to make sure your insurance is protecting the rest of your car. If you’re ready to revisit your policy,
Jerry
can help you quickly and easily compare quotes from more than 50 top car insurers, all in one place.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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