Check AC System in Spring Before Summer Heat

The Problem

Your AC blows warm on the first 95°F day. Every shop has a 2-week wait. You suffer in the heat.

The Hack

In March or April, run your AC for 10 minutes. If it's not blowing cold, get it checked while shops aren't busy. AC recharge costs $100-150 vs $200+ in peak summer.

Why It Works

AC refrigerant slowly leaks — losing 5-10% per year is normal. Getting ahead of summer means shorter wait times, lower prices, and you're not suffering in a hot car while waiting for repair.

Pro Tips

• Run AC for 10 minutes in early spring to test
• Recharge: $100-150 at a shop, $30-40 DIY with a can of R-134a
• If AC stops working suddenly (not gradually), it may be a compressor or leak
• Spring service = no wait, off-peak pricing