Needs a Regas
 

Bought the car last year so some of it is new to me.
With this weather I was thinking of getting the AirCon regassed.
Me not knowing if the AirCon worked before it run out of gas are there checks I can do?
What I don't want is to go to get it regassed only to find it does not work.
Paying for that and it not working is a waste in my book.

You can inspect the system for evidence of a major leak. Look for luminous green/yellow dye.
Make sure that your radiator fan is working on its slowest speed.
Check the condition of the fins on the condenser. If a lot are missing or turn to powder when touched, it may need renewing.
That's about all you can do yourself.

I'd strongly recommend that you use a self-employed mobile specialist. He can do the checks which you would like, including a nitrogen pressure test, before recharging. You'll get a diagnosis or a bill of good health but it won't be free of charge.

Simon