Weather Talks: Your Car's A/C and related issues

As we all know, it is as hot as an oven in Port Harcourt during the hours of 12pm to 4pm. With the temperature getting to about 34 degrees Celsius, your AC in your vehicle has to be working at its best for you to enjoy your vehicle.

Your car's AC unit creates cold air by using the liquid refrigerant and then turning it into a gas. This gas then makes the ac in your car cold.

If your Air conditioner used to be cold but is not as cold as it used to be, these are some symptoms you need to be checking and what to do about them.

My A/C isn’t as cold as it used to be, what’s going on?

There are several reasons an A/C system can lose its cool. Bring your ride to us as soon as you start noticing this symptom, it could mean the difference between needing a small repair, or worse, a large one. Here’s what can cause your cold air to lose its cool.

• A Freon leak caused by a failed o-ring, seal, hose or component
• A clogged expansion tube or refrigerant charging hose
• Failed compressor or compressor clutch
• Failed blower motor or blower motor resistor
• Damaged or failed condenser or evaporator
• Vacuum leaks
• Failed switch, fuse, relay, control module, blend door or solenoid

Cool But Not Cold

If the air conditioning is set to max cool and fans on high, but is only blowing moderately cool air:

• Check to see that the cooling fans on the condenser or radiator are running when the air conditioning is on.
• Look for any restrictions like leaves, bugs or dirt that would keep air from passing over the condenser.
• Check the cabin air filter to ensure that it is not clogged. Cabin air filter may be clogged up with debris. Replace it if it is dirty. (Check owners manual if you are unsure if you have one)

Leaks

Leaks are the most common problem associated with the air conditioning system.

If pressure is low, then there may be a leak.

The AC compressor is one of the most important, if not the most important, components of a vehicle’s air conditioning system. It is responsible for pressurizing the AC system and keeping the refrigerant flowing so that it can function properly. Because it functions in a continuous cycle on and off, it is subject to wear every time the AC is turned on. Just like any other component on a vehicle, it will eventually fail and need to be replaced.

Usually when a compressor begins to fail it will produce a few warning signs that alert the driver that it has a problem. The compressor is responsible for pressurizing and distributing the refrigerant, so if there is any problem with the compressor, the rest of the AC system will be affected. Below are signs to watch out for a failing compressor.

• Cabin temperatures higher than normal
• Loud noises when the compressor is running
• Compressor clutch is not moving

With the warm temperatures still around it is important to keep your air conditioning system in good working condition.  Your air conditioning system in your vehicle is an important part of keeping you comfortable but it also important to your safety.

If you suspect that your AC compressor or another component of your vehicle’s AC system is having issues, consider having the system diagnosed by a professional technician, such as one from us. If necessary, we will also be able to replace the AC compressor for you.