It can be difficult to get comfortable in the sweltering summer heat when the air conditioning system of your car malfunctions. Here are a few details about how an auto air conditioner works and how to tell when it needs to be serviced:
How does your auto air conditioner work?
The air conditioner of your car works by compressing the system's refrigerant to raise its temperature. As the refrigerant flows through the car's condenser, which looks similar to your radiator coils, it goes through a dryer component that removes contaminants and water. An accumulating component then slows down the movement of the refrigerant, which results in a decline in pressure and a reduction in temperature before the refrigerant reaches the evaporator.
The evaporator of the auto air conditioning system is inside the dashboard panel of your vehicle. It lowers the temperature of your car's refrigerant even further. In addition, it dries the air. Your car's ventilation blower moves the air over the cold evaporator and releases the air into the cab of your vehicle through the vehicle's vents.
What are the signs that your system needs to be serviced?
Here are a few signs that your auto air conditioning system needs to be serviced:
Only warm air is blowing.
If the air blowing through your car's ventilation system is still warm even though your air conditioner is on, the refrigerant in your system may need to be recharged. An auto mechanic can check the level of your refrigerant and inspect your system for leaks. If lower-than-normal levels are confirmed, more refrigerant may need to be added and your system may have a leak.
A moldy odor is blowing from your vents.
If you notice an unusual smell coming from your car's ventilation system as you run your air conditioner, you could have a mold infestation. Mold growing in your system could cause a musty, moldy smell. The mold needs to be removed as soon as possible to prevent allergic reactions that are associated with the inhalation of mold spores, such as migraines, asthma attacks or general malaise.
Foul odors are flowing from your vents.
In some cases, the smell may remind you of rotting flesh. If that is the case, a small animal may have crawled into the ventilation system and died. It is best to have your system professionally inspected to locate and remove the carcass without damaging your system.
Loud noises emanate from your system.
If you notice loud noises as you run your auto air conditioner, the sound could be caused by loose components of your system, debris in your ducts or even a worn out belt.
Liquid appears on the floorboard of your car.
If the drain hose of your car's air conditioning system becomes clogged, the water may flow into the floorboard of your car.
If your car's air conditioning system appears to be malfunctioning, schedule an appointment with an auto mechanic in your area today. Companies like Jason's Auto Repair may be able to meet your needs in this area.
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