Air conditioning is one of those things that’s pretty easy to take for granted, well, until you don’t have it anymore. The last thing you want is a car without air conditioning in the peak summer months. It’s not only annoying, but it can also be extremely dangerous. In this article, we’re going over the common culprits of A/C trouble and how to address them.
Low Refrigerant or Leaks
Refrigerant is the fluid responsible for absorbing heat and cooling the air. Over time, seals, rubber hoses, or O-rings can degrade, causing the refrigerant to leak out and blow out uncooled or slightly cool air instead of freezing cold.
Clogged Cabin Air Filter
The cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, and If your air conditioner is emitting a foul smell when you turn on the air vents, your cabin air filter needs replacing. Mold and mildew buildup within the system can cause a bad smell.
Faulty A/C Compressor
When the airflow is strong, but the air isn’t as cool, this is often caused by leaks, clogs, or damaged parts. If your car’s A/C is not blowing cold air or simply not working, you might be dealing with leaking refrigerant, a damaged cooling fan, or a faulty A/C compressor or condenser.
Electrical Issues
Your auto air conditioning systems contain various switches and relays. These components can malfunction due to bad connections or corrosion that has built up on the leads. If your car A/C has an electrical issue, mechanics need to visually inspect all the wiring to see if any wires are broken or frayed.
Broken Condenser or Condenser Fans
If your condenser isn’t working well, it can cause restricted airflow and ineffective cooling of the high-pressure refrigerant vapors from the compressor. This issue can be due to debris buildup or breakage. If there’s a defect, the refrigerant may leak, resulting in A/C system failure. Over time, the condenser’s seals and tubes may experience wear-and-tear, potentially causing leakage. Leakage can be identified by observing an oily, greenish residue around the affected area. On the other hand, a broken radiator can lead to the malfunction of the A/C drive belt, freon line, or wiring, requiring replacement of the condenser or radiator to fix the problem. By ensuring the proper functioning of both the condenser and radiator, you can avoid many common car AC problems.
Expert AC & Heat Repair in Portland, OR
When your air conditioner blows warm air, or your heater leaves you freezing on a rainy Portland morning, it’s time to visit Arthur’s Automotive. We provide reliable, expert-level AC & heat repair in Portland, OR, designed to keep you comfortable in every season. Whether you need a quick auto AC recharge or a full car heater service, our ASE-certified technicians have you covered with in-depth diagnostics and repairs. Schedule an appointment with us today!
