It’s very easy to overlook many issues with modern vehicles. Between the luxury interiors and high fidelity radios, various squeaks and rattles effortlessly go unnoticed. One thing that is rather difficult to ignore though are issues with your vehicles air conditioning system. No matter how loud the radio, it will not ease the beads of sweat running down your forehead on a sweltering summer day.
Your vehicles air conditioning system has a tough job. It must not only cool the air but remove moisture, dust, pollen, and smoke. To preform to the best of it’s abilities it needs several conditions. The correct refrigerant level, enough pressure to move that refrigerant, and adequate airflow to allow the evaporator and condenser to do their jobs. There is no need to sweat air conditioning repairs. However many problems can be avoided with proper maintenance.
A/C system overview
Condenser Stage
High pressure gas exits the compressor and is forced into the condenser. The condenser is a heat exchanger and is located in the front of the vehicle in the path of oncoming air. This air moves across the fins of the condenser, removing heat from the refrigerant. Cooling of the refrigerant causes it to condense into a liquid state, exiting to the expansion valve.
Expansion Valve Stage
The expansion valve restricts the flow of refrigerant, which in turn lowers the pressure as it exits the valve headed downstream. It is the dividing point between the high and low side of the system. The expansion valve allows the expansion of liquid refrigerant to form a fine, atomized mist, which allows it to vaporize and absorb heat more easily. You could compare it to the action of the nozzle on a garden hose, turning a solid stream into a mist of droplets.
Evaporator Stage
At this point liquid, low pressure refrigerant is moving through the expansion valve and into the evaporator core. The evaporator is another heat exchanger but located inside the cabin. Warm air passes through, being pushed by the blower motor. The refrigerant moving inside the tubes of the evaporator absorbs heat as it is turned from a liquid into a gas. Because of the latent heat of vaporization, when a substance is changed from a liquid to a gas, it absorbs heat. This allows your cars air conditioner to reduce outside temps as low as 30 degrees.
What Can I Do?
Your vehicles A/C system does not require a lot of maintenance. Replace your cabin air filter and clean the condenser in front of the radiator on a regular basis. It is not a good idea to try to open up a system unless you are are licensed, qualified mechanic. Yes, large auto parts store are technically allowed to sell refrigerant to the public. But be aware, a non-functioning system can be damaged by overfilling causing a potentially expensive, catastrophic failure. The best option is to bring the vehicle into a professional shop to have an inspection and pressure check.
Your local trustworthy mechanic has the tools to inspect all of the critical components. A worthwhile garage can save you money and frustration on your A/C repair by troubleshooting and repairing only the necessary parts. Have peace of mind knowing the ozone depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons contained in modern refrigerants are being captured and recycled in compliance with Federal regulations.
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