What Does Car Air Conditioning Repair Include?

What Does Car Air Conditioning Repair Include?

How does my car’s air conditioner work? What happens if the air conditioner breaks? When would I need car air conditioning repair?

As the world keeps seeing higher average temperatures every summer, people are understandably concerned about how their car’s A/C system works.  We’re getting more and more questions about air conditioning, and when car air conditioning repair would be a good idea.

So, in this article, let’s take a look at how a car’s A/C system works, what can go wrong, and when you might want to have it inspected by auto professionals.

I. The Major Components of Car Air Conditioning

Leaving aside some assorted hoses and ports, there are four main components you’ll see in almost any car’s A/C system:

• Compressor
• Condenser
• Evaporator
• And either an accumulator or a receiver/dryer

What do they do?  If you’re familiar with how air conditioners work in general, there aren’t many surprises here.  However, to break it down:

The Compressor is the heart of any air conditioning system.  It is responsible for pressurizing (compressing) the refrigerant which is necessary for cooling to happen.  If the compressor breaks, there will be no cold air.

Typically, a car’s compressor also includes temperature sensors that regulate its activity.  Its power comes from your serpentine belt, like many other systems within a car.

The Condenser is nearly as important as the compressor.  This takes hot gaseous refrigerant at the end of its trip through the A/C system and condenses it back to a liquid.  Then it can go through the compressor to be pressurized again.

This is usually located right in front of the radiator, so it can radiate heat straight out of the front of the vehicle.  

The Evaporator is the third primary component in any A/C system.  It’s the device that directly cools the air while removing moisture from it.  Low-pressure refrigerant passes through it, absorbing heat from the car’s interior.  Then the air is blown over the evaporator, spreading coolness through the car.

Finally, depending on the type of engine, you’ll have either an Accumulator or a Receiver/Dryer.  Both serve similar functions.  They remove and trap harmful moisture, as well as any other debris that might have made its way into the A/C system.

The difference is whether your engine has a thermal expansion valve or an orifice tube.  Both act as monitors on the amount of heat in the system.  If the engine has an orifice tube, it has an accumulator.  If there’s a thermal expansion valve, it has a receiver/dryer.

II. Common Signs of Air Conditioner Malfunction

Honestly, there are few systems on a car where it’s generally so easy to tell if something’s wrong.

Are you continuing to get properly cold, refreshing air coming out of your vents at a steady, pleasing level of pressure?  If so, your car’s air conditioning is probably fine.  On the other hand, if the air isn’t cold, or it isn’t coming out at a high enough volume, you’ve got problems with your A/C system. 

The other major sign that you have problems with your air conditioning is if you have a coolant leak.  Most coolants are bright green or orange, which is deliberate so that they can be seen easily.  If you ever spot a green or orange puddle under your car, you should take it in for car air conditioner repair ASAP.

III. Common Causes of Air Conditioning Problems

The most common problem in most A/C systems is a coolant leak.  Ideally, the coolant is contained within a ‘closed system’ and if nothing ever goes wrong, your car will be able to keep reusing the same coolant throughout its lifespan.

However, if leaks develop, you’ll quickly lose that coolant.  Leaks can happen in the tubing, or in any of the major systems.  This is a problem that definitely needs a professional’s services.  Professional auto shops have chemical “sniffers” which can quickly pinpoint the source of a leak, even if the leak is minor, and save a lot of tedious digging around.

Another common issue is if the fins on the A/C condenser become damaged.  The condenser acts like a mini-radiator and has fins on it that are necessary for heat exchange.  If they become bent, broken, or clogged, it will stop being able to radiate enough heat for the coolant to become properly cooled.

Finally, the other common problems are mechanical in nature, affecting the fan.  If the blower belt comes loose, or the fan stops spinning properly, you won’t get proper airflow.

Need Car Air Conditioner Repair?  Come To Fred’s!

Since 1974, Fred’s Auto Service & Repair has provided top-quality automotive repair services in the greater Briarcliff area.  If you’re having A/C problems, don’t sweat it out – bring your car to Fred’s for excellent treatment.  Click here to schedule an appointment.