Car air conditioning on an electric or hybrid car

Car Air Conditioning Servicing on Electric and Hybrid Vehicles.

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At Staykool we specialise in electric and hybrid cars.

 

Maintaining your electric vehicle's (EV) air conditioning system is just as crucial as it is for traditional vehicles. While the process is similar to a standard air conditioning service, there are key differences that owners and mechanics must be aware of—especially when it comes to safety and the type of oil used in the system.

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Why using Non-Conductive Oil Is Essential

Electric vehicles utilize high-voltage systems to power their drivetrains. The air conditioning compressor in an EV is often electrically driven, unlike conventional cars where the compressor is powered by the engine. This means that the oil used in the air conditioning system must be non-conductive to prevent electricity from flowing through the system, which could lead to serious electrical faults, damage to components, or even safety hazards.

Using the wrong oil—such as one designed for traditional combustion engine vehicles—can compromise the insulation of high-voltage components and result in dangerous situations. That’s why it’s vital to ensure your EV air conditioning system is serviced with the correct non-conductive PAG or POE oil.

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Do You Need to Be HVRA Registered?

One of the most common misconceptions about working on electric vehicle air conditioning systems is the requirement for HVRA (High Voltage Refrigerant Handling Accreditation) registration. However, as long as the air conditioning system is serviced properly and the correct practices are followed, you do not need to hold this specific certification. Servicing EV air conditioning systems follows the same principles as servicing traditional ones, provided the proper tools, oils, and safety measures are used.

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The Same Price, But Not Always Popular

At Staykool, we charge the same affordable rates for EV air conditioning services as we do for traditional vehicles:

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• £69 for R134a gas

• £99 for R1234yf gas

• Both services include free antibacterial and UV dye treatments.

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While the process is largely the same, some garages shy away from working on electric vehicles. This hesitation can stem from concerns about high-voltage systems or unfamiliarity with the specific requirements of EVs. However, with the correct knowledge and tools, there’s no reason why EV air conditioning servicing should be avoided.

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Beware of R134a Being Used in R1234yf Systems

If your car requires R1234yf refrigerant, it’s crucial to ensure that the correct gas is used during your air conditioning service. Unfortunately, some garages may opt to use R134a instead because it’s cheaper and readily available. While this might seem like a cost-saving measure, it can lead to serious problems for your car’s air conditioning system.

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Why Is R1234yf Necessary?

R1234yf is specifically designed to meet modern environmental and safety standards. It has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R134a, making it the refrigerant of choice for manufacturers in newer vehicles. Using the wrong refrigerant, like R134a, in a system designed for R1234yf can result in:

• Damage to seals and components: The systems are engineered to operate under specific pressures and chemical properties, and R134a isn’t compatible.

• Reduced performance: Your air conditioning may not cool as efficiently or could overwork the system.

• Invalidated warranties: Using the incorrect refrigerant might void your vehicle’s warranty.

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How to Protect Yourself

When booking an air conditioning service, always ask the garage to confirm which refrigerant they are using. Don’t hesitate to request proof—most reputable businesses can provide a gas usage report from their machine. This will show whether they’re using R1234yf, as required, or R134a, which might cause issues down the line.

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Why Some Garages Use R134a

Some garages choose to use R134a because it costs less and works in the short term. However, this shortcut can result in expensive repairs for the customer later. These garages often cut corners, so ensuring the proper refrigerant is used is critical for protecting your vehicle and your investment.

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We Always Use the Correct Refrigerant

At our business, we’re committed to providing high-quality, transparent service. When you bring your vehicle to us, you can rest assured that:

• We only use R1234yf in vehicles that require it.

• Our prices are upfront: £69 for R134a systems and £99 for R1234yf systems, both including antibacterial and UV dye treatment.

• We’re happy to provide proof of the refrigerant we use during your service.

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Don’t risk unnecessary damage to your car—book your air conditioning service with us today! Reserve your appointment online at www.staykool.as.me.

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Why Choose Us?

We understand the unique needs of electric vehicles and ensure every service is performed with precision and safety. We are fully equipped to handle EV air conditioning systems, providing you with a reliable and worry-free experience.

Book your EV air conditioning service today and stay cool all year round. Reserve your spot online at www.staykool.as.me.