05/12/2026
Automotive A/C System Myth vs. Fact or BBQ vs TIRE ?
Most people assume their vehicle "just needs a recharge"
Myth: BBQ Theory
> They think the refrigerant gets consumed like propane in a BBQ.
> Hot summer last year means They used a lot of refrigerant up = must be low ..
> Going on long hot trip ? Better make sure the system is FULL = Don't want to run out.
Truth: TIRE Theory
> Your a/c system is like a Tire - Sealed unless there is a hole.
> Automotive A/C is a hermetically sealed closed-loop system. It recirculates the exact same refrigerant indefinitely.
> Car A/C systems contain rubber hoses that naturally permeate gas- slowly over a few years.
> Microscopic refrigerant loss occurs naturally over several years.
> A system suddenly empty on refrigerant indicates a physical leak.
