AC Recharge in San Mateo, CA
Vacuum-tested for leaks first, then filled to factory weight on a Robinair machine. R-134a or R-1234yf — we don't substitute. From $129.
A proper AC recharge is more than dumping refrigerant into the system. It's: vacuum, leak-check, then fill to factory weight in ounces — not "cans." Beacon Auto Care in San Mateo uses dedicated R-134a and R-1234yf machines that automate the process to OEM spec.
A recent Range Rover Evoque came in blowing warm at idle. Robinair recovered 9 oz of refrigerant from a system spec'd for 17 oz — already 47% low. Vacuum-hold test for 30 minutes held steady (no leak), so we refilled to factory weight: the display read "CHARGE IN PROGRESS / 14.7 oz / Low Side" at 5:12 PM. Vent temp dropped from 78°F to 41°F before the customer drove off.
What's Included
- Recover existing refrigerant — measure how much is in the system to identify leaks
- Vacuum the system — pull a deep vacuum to remove air and moisture
- Vacuum hold test — vacuum holds = no leak; vacuum drops = leak somewhere
- UV dye test available if leak is suspected
- Recharge to factory weight — by gram or ounce, not by "can"
- Performance test — vent temp at idle and at speed, return air, refrigerant pressures
- R-134a and R-1234yf machines on-site — both refrigerant types served
- Refrigerant filled to factory weight, not by guesswork
- Vent temperature tested before and after — proof it's working
- If a leak is found, we'll show you with photos before quoting repair
- Most recharges done in 1–2 hours — same-day, no overnight wait
If your AC was working last week and is suddenly empty, see AC leak detection. AC blowing hot air? Start here. If a recharge won't hold and the compressor is the culprit, see AC compressor replacement.
Common Questions About AC Recharge
What's included, refrigerant type, when to recharge vs repair.
Why does my AC need recharging?
Don't just recharge if there's a leak — find the leak first.
R-134a or R-1234yf — which does my car use?
How much does an AC recharge cost in San Mateo?
Will a $30 DIY recharge can work?
Related car symptoms
Other symptom? Tap below — or walk through our triage tool .
What San Mateo Drivers Say About AC Service
“Favio and Moe helped me complete a pre purchase inspection and gave really candid, honest and helpful advice. Both of them offered to continue helping me even after the service…”
— Kathleen Torrez
Read more“My mom's tire was leaking. Someone told us that it needed to be replaced. Then someone else told us there was a nail. I stopped by Beacon and they did a very thorough check…”
— James S.
Read more“Friendly and thorough in their attention to service.”
— Chevrolet Malibu Owner
“Moe came to jump my car after it randomly stopped working one morning. Turns out I needed a battery replacement and he was able to do it right there and went above and beyond and…”
— Danae Troupe
Read more“5 stars! Moe and Flabio were very helpful and explained what was going on with my car. Quick and fair service with great communication throughout the whole process. I'm definitely…”
— Maressa S.
Read more“Excellent service! Car was in bad shape and turn around time to fix the needed items took around 2 1/2 days! Car runs like new now!”
— Hyundai Sonata Owner
AC Not Cooling? Recharge to Factory-Spec Weight.
Vacuum, leak-check, fill to factory weight. Photos to your phone before any further work.