As temperatures start to rise, the last thing you want is to turn on your car’s air conditioning and get nothing but warm air. That’s why spring is the perfect time for a full A/C system check, especially before the summer heat sets in. A pre-season inspection can catch small issues before they become big repairs—and keep your drive comfortable all season long.
If your A/C system hasn’t been looked at in a while, or if it’s not blowing as cold as it used to, a spring check can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
What We Look For in a Spring A/C Inspection
A proper A/C check goes beyond just turning on the system and feeling if it’s cold. Technicians inspect the entire system—from the compressor to the refrigerant lines—to make sure everything is working properly and efficiently.
Some of the main things included in a spring A/C check are:
- Refrigerant level and pressure check to ensure there are no leaks and the system is fully charged.
- Compressor operation—the heart of the system that pressurizes the refrigerant.
- Condenser and evaporator performance to make sure heat is being exchanged and removed effectively.
- Temperature output at the vents to measure how cold the system is blowing.
- Inspection of hoses and connections for signs of wear, cracking, or leaks.
- Belt and pulley inspection since the A/C compressor is often driven by the engine belt.
- Cabin air filter check, which affects how clean and strong the airflow feels inside the cabin.
Each part plays a role in keeping the system efficient and your ride cool. Even if one component is slightly off, the entire A/C system can suffer.
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Prep Your A/C System
Letting your A/C sit idle all winter can invite problems—like slow refrigerant leaks, moisture buildup, or minor electrical issues that go unnoticed until the first heatwave hits. Spring also brings high pollen counts and extra dust, which can clog your cabin air filter fast and make your airflow feel weaker than it should. Getting your A/C checked and cleaned early means you’ll be ready before the real heat arrives—and you won’t be stuck sweating it out in traffic.
What Happens If You Skip It
Putting off a spring A/C check might seem harmless, especially if the system “worked last year.” But refrigerant slowly leaks from even healthy systems over time. Low refrigerant puts stress on the compressor, which is one of the most expensive components to replace. Catching a minor leak or drop in pressure early can save you hundreds down the line.
You might also notice weak airflow or an unpleasant smell when you turn the system on. These are signs the system is struggling—or that moisture and bacteria have collected in the evaporator. Skipping the check lets those problems grow.
It’s Not Just About Comfort
A functioning A/C system helps more than just keeping you cool. It also assists with defogging your windows. On humid days, turning on the A/C helps remove moisture from the air inside the cabin, clearing the glass faster and improving visibility.
In hot climates, a failing A/C system can also pose a health risk, especially for children, pets, or older passengers. Keeping it in top condition ensures your vehicle is safe and comfortable for everyone inside.
Can You Check Anything Yourself
While a full inspection should be left to professionals, there are a few things you can check on your own:
- Turn on the A/C and make sure cold air is coming out within a few seconds.
- Listen for odd noises like clicking or grinding when the system starts.
- Replace your cabin air filter if it smells musty or the airflow seems weak.
- Peek under the hood for any obvious signs of wear on belts or hoses.
If anything seems off—or if it’s just been a while—schedule a professional check to avoid losing cooling power in the middle of summer.
Stay ahead of the heat with a complete A/C inspection at Napa BP, serving drivers in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA. Our team will check refrigerant levels, inspect key components, and make sure your cooling system is working exactly as it should—so you stay comfortable, no matter the temperature outside.