If providing automotive air conditioning repairs is essential to your business, then having the right automotive AC repair equipment for the job is crucial. Over the years, auto air conditioning has become more sophisticated, so shops need the most up-to-date automotive AC repair equipment. Car AC systems consist of condensers, compressors, filters, hoses and much more, all of which need to be tested. Fortunately, AC systems are generally standard across makes and models.

Automotive air conditioning equipment also must help technicians meet all EPA standards. This means that an automotive AC machine will be one of your most important pieces of automotive AC equipment. It ensures that the refrigerant is recovered properly from a car’s air conditioning system.

You will want to make informed decisions when establishing your auto air conditioning service department. Start by finding answers to the following questions:

1. Where can I find information on the car air conditioning service equipment and supplies I will need?

2. What are the different functions of air conditioning servicing equipment, such as system analysis, leak detection, and refrigerant recovery?

3. How do the features on different systems compare?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research which types of AC service and auto AC equipment are standard in the industry

You must decide the types and level of services you will provide in your repair department. This will allow you to determine the level of investment you want to make in air conditioner service equipment.

I recommend: Arizona Mobile Air, Inc. provides an Automotive A/C Information Forum. The forum has details about AC service as well as tips on repair procedures. The website also offers detailed information about auto air conditioning service equipment and kits. At autoACsystems.com, you can find message boards, technical reports and a great deal of other practical information about automotive AC repair equipment.

Find the types of major automotive air conditioning equipment that are available

Automotive AC tools vary widely in features and cost. There are several levels of automotive AC repair equipment, from all-in-one machines to specialized ones. Many of the AC service equipment vendors carry several different systems with variable features. Study the information provided online or in catalogs to find the AC service equipment that is right for your shop.

I recommend: Red Hill Supply provides a detailed discussion about automotive air conditioning equipment, including refrigerant recovery systems. The product search function also allows you to find information about other types of car AC repair tools. Ariazone International has similar descriptions of air conditioning service equipment as well as discussions about current issues.

Choose the air conditioning service equipment that meets your needs

Knowing the capabilities and features of various pieces of air conditioning service equipment will allow you to select the equipment for your service department. Be sure to consider what the future holds as far as upgrading your auto AC equipment or expanding services.

I recommend: As an introduction to air conditioning service equipment comparisons, visit Automotive Service Equipment. The company carries two brands with descriptions that provide information to help you compare features. In addition to car AC repair equipment product information, experts at the AutomotiveTools.com help desk will answer questions and make recommendations. The website also provides a free message board for questions and answers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You get what you pay for with equipment such as car AC repair tools. Look for customer ratings and evaluations for the equipment you plan to purchase.