Greetings!
I’ve noticed a new wave of cynical ads swamping radio, TV, and web for Fuel Optimizers and DIY Air Conditioning Rechargers. I have concerns about products like these, each for different reasons, so for this month’s Tidbits I thought I’d explain why I think you’re better off avoiding them…
Let’s start with the “mileage optimizers”. They will claim to do things like improve gas mileage, enhance vehicle performance, reduce emissions, maximize horsepower, and/or minimizes fuel consumption. Any system that showed a significant, consistent, verifiable increase in mileage would be immediately adopted as original equipment by all the vehicle manufacturers. Meeting CAFÉ mileage standards currently costs these companies big bucks, and easy stuff like these gimmicks would be tested and used in a heartbeat. I see increased mileage hocus pocus every time fuel prices rise. Whether it’s platinum, hydrogen, or magnets, no one has shown me any real results yet! There may be some effect from fuel optimizers, but they would have to save a lot of fuel before there is a break even on the price tag of some of these devices. Good driving habits, trip planning, properly maintained vehicles, and driving less work best in my opinion.
I have different concerns with the “fix it yourself” AC products. Kits that allow untrained users to attempt to restore cold air are not new. They seem simple enough, but usually the only guarantee is you’re out your money! Even if short-term cold air is gained, the possible long-term damage far outweighs any benefit. Low refrigerant charge is only one of the multitude of reasons an AC system would stop working properly. And, if the system is indeed low, then where did the refrigerant go? AC systems are supposed to be sealed, so if the refrigerant has escaped through an undetected leak then just adding more is an infected band-aid at best. AC systems require a precise level of genuine 134a refrigerant and specific type and amount of a lubricating oil to function without destroying very expensive components like the compressor. Compressor replacement can cost over $1000.00, especially if the system is contaminated with bogus refrigerants or shrapnel from a now damaged compressor.
If your AC system is contaminated with counterfeit refrigerants or sealants you now have even bigger problems; qualified shops will not want to service your AC as the unknown refrigerants or sealants can destroy recycling and recharging equipment (that can cost well over $7500.00) and the hazardous waste in your AC system is now your liability. If there is a chance your system may contain something other than 100% genuine 134a you need to tell the service provider or get ready to pay for damaged equipment and hazardous waste disposal. Really, AC work on your vehicle is best left to quality professionals in the first place. “Air Conditioning Systems” deservingly is an ASE certification area all by itself. AC system repair is not for quickie lubes or amateurs, so please, if the cold air stops let us handle it.
Apparently the old adage still applies: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Pass it up, or at least check it out very carefully. We’re just an email or a phone call away!
Make a great day,
