In my experience, high-quality regassing costs can be anywhere form $110 to $500 depending on where you are in Australia.
In this blog, I’ve laid out specific ranges for each state, as well as tips on how to tell when your aircon needs regassing and improve aircon gas longevity, based on my years of experience working with auto electrics.
The Price of Regassing Across Australia
In my experience, the price you can expect to pay for an aircon regas in each state is:
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| New South Wales (Sydney) | Approximately $300 |
| Victoria (Melbourne) | Around $250 |
| Western Australia (Perth) | About $250 |
| Queensland (Brisbane) | Ranges from $250 to $500 |
| South Australia | Typically ranges between $115 and $165 |
| Northern Territory | Ranges between $110 to $170 |
| Australian Capital Territory | Ranges between $110 to $250 |
| Tasmania | Ranges between $110 to $250 |
Note: The above are general estimates based on my own experiences as there is no concrete data for every state and territory.
We offer a full aircon regas and service for $199.
How to Tell if Your Aircon Needs Regassing
The most obvious sign is if your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air.
Other signs include:
- You do not remember when (or if) your car’s air conditioning was regassed or serviced.
- Your windscreen or car windows take longer to demist than usual
- You or a friend watched an online video and regassed your car’s aircon.
- There is an unusual smell when you turn on the aircon
- You hear strange noises when you start your aircon
For more information, read our blog on how to tell if your aircon needs regassing.
The Difference Between DIY and Professional Service Aircon Service
There are pros and cons to both DIY aircon regassing and professional regassing. However, there are more pros and fewer cons to professional regassing.
| Pros of DIY Regassing | Cons of DIY Regassing |
|---|---|
| Potential cost savings | Risk of significant damage leading to higher repair costs |
| Perceived ease and convenience from instructional videos | Lack of expertise can result in incorrect repairs |
| Legal issues with refrigerant use and disposal | |
| Pros of Professional Regassing | Cons of Professional Regassing |
| Expert evaluation and reliable maintenance | Initial cost might be higher than DIY |
| Professionals are licensed for handling and disposing of refrigerants | |
| Prevent future problems with professional insight |
What is Included in an Aircon Regas?
A professional aircon service and regas from an auto electrician such as us includes:
- Inspection of valves, drive belts, the thermostat, and hoses
- Recovery and replacement of old refrigerant (regas).
- Leak-testing throughout system lines.
- System temperature check.
- Full system clean.
How to Use Your Car’s Aircon More Efficiently
With regular servicing and proper use, your car’s aircon can give you years of comfort.
In my experience, the following tips can help you keep your car’s air conditioning functioning at peak performance:
- Point the vents at the ceiling: This ensures everyone, not just the driver, gets cool air.
- Clean or replace your cabin air filter: This ensures any mould or mildew particles are not recycled around the car’s interior. Additionally, dust and debris will not block the cool air.
- Set your aircon on low and adjust the fan: Use the fan settings to adjust the level of heat or coolness.
- Use recirculation mode: Once you feel cool air, switch your settings to recirculate the air that is in the car. Because it is already cooled, your aircon will work more efficiently.
- Do not pre-cool your car: Many people make the mistake of starting their car and waiting for the temperature to drop. The fact is your aircon works better when your vehicle is in motion. Instead of pre-cooling, start driving with the back windows down. This will flush out the warm air and replace it with cool air once you have gone for a few minutes.
- Turn your aircon off correctly: To reduce wear, always turn off your air conditioner when your car is still running.
For more information, read our blog on how to get the most out of your car’s air conditioning.
FAQs
How often should I regas my car’s air conditioning system?
It is generally recommended to regas your car’s air conditioning system every 1-2 years. However, this can vary based on your vehicle’s usage and manufacturer’s guidelines. Regular maintenance checks can help determine if a regas is needed.
Can I regas my car’s aircon system myself?
While there are DIY aircon regas kits available, it’s advisable to have this service performed by a qualified technician. Incorrect handling of refrigerants can be harmful to both you and the environment. Professional servicing ensures the job is done safely and effectively.
How long does an aircon regas take?
An aircon regas usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. However, if additional maintenance or repairs are required, it could take longer. It’s best to consult with the service provider for a more accurate time estimate.
Conclusion
To sum up, it’s important to know the cost of car aircon regassing in Australia, which varies by location.
While DIY might seem tempting, it often leads to higher costs due to potential damage. Professional regassing is more reliable, ensures legal compliance, and helps avoid future issues.
Additionally, using your car’s aircon efficiently can enhance its performance and lifespan.
Overall, choosing professional services is generally the safer and more cost-effective option in the long run.