Is your car’s air conditioning system ready for summer?

By Bill Snow, Owner/Operator of Rad Air Wickliffe

Once we hit that first 80-degree day, it’s time to crank on the AC. But before you dial up the chill, ask yourself: Is your air conditioning system working correctly?

Your vehicle’s AC is a complex system made up of mechanical components which are controlled by electrical switches and modules, and refrigerant which is the gas that keeps it cool.

Sometimes drivers think they just need to “top off their freon” to fix their AC, but that’s an oversimplification. Plus, many of those over-the-counter cans of refrigerant include sealants that can clog your system, ultimately doing more harm than good.

Air conditioning is a sealed, high-pressure system and there are many things that can go wrong at different levels within the mechanics, including leaks or electrical issues.

Your AC system needs to be inspected by a professional. We can repair automatic and dual climate control in any type of car, even antique, hybrid and hot rods. My team is trained and section 609-certified by the EPA to handle refrigerants.

Freon is a clear, odorless gas, so it’s tough to diagnose a leak, as it evaporates quickly.

Our techs work with both types of refrigerant, R-134A and the newer one, 1234YF. And unlike most places, if you need us to manufacture a line to fix the system, we can do that in-house, which saves money.

There’s no reason to suffer in a stifling hot car because your AC doesn’t work. Our knowledgeable and highly trained team is here to help.

Bill Snow grew up working on race cars and ran a shop while in college. After being in the corporate world for years, he decided to get back to the car industry and bought the local Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Center. It’s located at 29257 Anderson Road, in Wickliffe. Call 440-943-9666 or visit RadAir.com for more information.