Air Conditioning Manual – Detecting and Preventing AC Defects
The point of regular servicing of vital components like brakes, suspension, tyres etc. is to ensure a comfortable driving experience. But, your driving experience cannot be pleasant with a defective air-conditioning.
An automobile AC relies on the same components as a regular air conditioner, such as the evaporator, condenser, compressor, expansion valve and an accumulator. The accumulator uses desiccants to dry any excess moisture in the refrigerant. It’s a good practice to get a full air conditioning servicing once a year, especially before the summer months starts.
However, problems can show up anytime, and become a cause of inconvenience. Look for the apparent signs of a faulty AC to prevent any expensive repairs.
Signs of a Defective AC
A faulty air conditioner will manifest with the following signs-
1. Weak airflow from AC vents
2. Stark decrease in cooling capacity
3. AC starts to cool but then fails to continue the process
4. Unpleasant odour
Fixing a faulty AC is not a typical DIY. Hence, you must consult professionals for repairing your car’s Air Conditioning Newport or anywhere else in the UK. However, preventive measures are always useful in prolonging the time between servicing.
Tips for Air Conditioner Maintenance
I. Use your air conditioner at least once a week
Regular use keeps the seals, hoses and valves of components such as the evaporator and the compressor well-lubricated, and prevents leakage.
II. Check for low refrigerant level
Due to prolonged disuse during winter, the rubber seals can dry out and shrink, which may lead to refrigerant leakage. Every time you visit any garage for a vehicle servicing in Newport, ask their technician to check the refrigerant level.
Common Causes of AC Problems
Knowing the reasons for a poorly functioning AC may help you to avail the right services during a repair.
Here are the 5 Most Common Reasons for AC Malfunctions –
1. Accumulation of mould or mildew
Moulds and fungus can grow in the evaporator core during winters. The presence of mould can result in odorous air inside the cabin, and can also exacerbate discomfort in people with allergies.
2. Under performing ventilation fan
A defective blower motor or blower motor resistor is a common reason for AC problems.
3. Low refrigerant level
Old rubber seals tend to harden and shrink, causing leakage,and resulting in a loss of refrigerant volume. The refrigerant volume can also reduce over time courtesy disintegration of its constituent chemical compounds.
4. Clogged expansion tube or refrigerant charging hose
Expansion valve propels-requisite amounts of refrigerant to the evaporator. Residues can jam this valve and prevent coolant flow. The temperature of the refrigerant drops after it expands.If it cannot flow into the evaporator, this cold fluid can freeze the expansion valve.
5. Faulty compressor clutch
Compressor clutch is a control mechanism for the AC compressor that toggles it according to ambient cabin temperature.A defective compressor clutch may fail to switch off the compressor, leading to inaccurate temperature control.
Don’t let a faulty AC diminish the comfort level during your drive. Visit a garage that provides expert service to get your AC repaired. Garages such as Trade Price Tyres have an exceptional team of technicians who can perform AC repairs accurately. You can also avail other services like brake repair and engine diagnostics at their garage.