Why Is My Car’s A/C Not Working?
With summer right around the corner, the worst thing to have happen to anyone is a broken A/C system. But what exactly caused your A/C to stop working properly? Automotive air conditioning systems are complex and have many components that can fail. In this article, we are going to go over the most common causes of A/C failure.
Leaking or Low A/C Refrigerant
Over time, it is common for the closed and pressurized A/C system in your vehicle to start to leak. If you notice warm or hot air coming through the vents in your car, recharging the A/C can help it blow cold again. You can get this fixed at many repair shops, which will recharge your A/C through the low-pressure port of your A/C system.
Bad Air Conditioning Compressor
The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant and compressing it into a high-pressure gas that then moves to the AC condenser. If the compressor isn’t working properly, your air conditioning system won’t be able to cool the air effectively.
Blocked or Broken Condenser
Similar to how your radiator works, the AC condenser allows the liquified refrigerant to flow into the evaporator and absorb heat. When the condenser has issues, the causes range from refrigerant leaks to contamination blocking the flow of refrigerant.
Broken Air Conditioning Fans
Broken or damaged fans can disrupt airflow through your AC system. When fans malfunction or break, your vehicle’s AC may not blow cold air even when refrigerant levels are normal. Sometimes, the AC fan works perfectly, only to stop working for no apparent reason, just to work the next day. This may not be a problem with the fan itself. Instead, it could be an electrical issue.
Clogged Cabin Air Filter
Your car’s cabin air filter is responsible for filtering contaminants and debris from your interior and climate control system. However, after the filter catches a significant amount of dust, dirt, and pollen, it can become blocked and restrict the amount of airflow entering the system.
Without the proper amount of air being pulled through, your A/C will be less effective at delivering cold air into your interior. Luckily, cabin air filters are generally one of the easiest and least expensive maintenance items to take care of.
How can I extend the life of my A/C system?
Here are a few tips and tricks that may help extend the lifespan of the components and refrigerant within your vehicle’s A/C system.
- Minimize dust and dirt in your interior to prevent contamination.
- Ensure a proper coolant level to prevent harm to A/C components.
- Keep an eye on your refrigerant charge.
- Run your A/C defroster mode weekly (especially during the Winter) to prevent seizing.
- Regular cabin air filter replacements
- Try not to overdo it with A/C.
A/C Service in Peoria
When it’s time to have your vehicle serviced, don’t let the A/C system go unchecked. Trust the expert technicians at Beachlers in Peoria, Illinois. We have the equipment and experience to maintain your A/C system and keep you cool this upcoming summer. Call or schedule online today with our friendly team!