When you get in your car, truck, suv, or mini van to drive and the A/C does not work what could be wrong? We have some simple answers to help you understand how your vehicle Air Conditioning System works. The first question we are asked is "Why isn't my air conditioner blowing cold air?"
The answer: Your air conditioning system uses refrigerant to create cold air. The most common reasons auto owners lose their cold air have to do with the refrigerant. The first is not enough refrigerant. Refrigerant is a gas in the system and very small holes in a hose, seal or coupler can allow enough to leak out to prevent the creation of cold air.
Another potential problem for our local auto owners is contamination. Over time the inside of the rubber hoses can deteriorate and little bits of rubber can clog up various filters and other critical parts of the family car A/C system, preventing proper circulation of the refrigerant. And a component could also be worn or broken. So the first step for our customers who can't cool their family car is a thorough air conditioning inspection, looking for leaks and worn parts. In fact, Federal law requires an inspection before adding refrigerant. Some states do not allow topping off a leaking system.
Once any vital repairs are made, refrigerant is added. At the same time, special oil is added to the system. This oil cools and lubricates various components as it circulates along with the refrigerant. If you have a refrigerant leak, you also have an oil leak – and it's important that both be replenished for proper function and protection of your A/C system.
Sometimes overlooked by drivers is the fact that a worn serpentine belt (which drives the A/C compressor) leads to belt slippage which puts additional strain on the compressor. Replacing your serpentine belt and belt tensioner on schedule will extend the life of your A/C compressor and other critical belt driven accessories.
If you have any questions on your vehicle's air conditioning system stop by the shop and talk with our automotive technicians. We will take a look at the problem and have you back on the road quickly.
