Imagine hitting the road on a hot summer day (110 + degrees), only to find the car AC not working! Have you ever had to do it? You know, driving with the windows down in an attempt to keep cool during the blistering AZ summers? It definitely isn’t something anybody wants to deal with! If your AC isn’t working, we can help!
Most Common Reasons Why AC Doesn’t Work
A Refrigerant Leak
If the AC is set to the coolest setting, fans on high, but only blowing marginally cool or warm air, it could be a refrigerant leak in the system. AC system issues are typically caused by a combination of refrigerant and moisture, that when merged, produces a corrosive acid that eats at the hoses, valves, and seals. Besides affecting how well AC works, the acid produced can end up corroding the inside of the compressor. When this happens, metal fragments can spread throughout the system, causing an extensive blockage, damage, as well as component malfunctions.
Troubleshooting the Problem:
- Check out the Schrader Valves
- Look for small holes in the condenser
- Look at condenser hose manifolds
- Check for damages to hoses and where they’re crimped to the fittings
- Verify that all fittings are secure
- Check out the O-rings and front seal that secure the pressure switches on the back of most AC compressors
- Use UV A/C leak detection kit, an easy way to find leaks
A Faulty Compressor and Clutch
A worn or damaged compressor can’t effectively regulate refrigerant flow in the AC system, meaning it can’t deliver cool air. The most common reason compressors fail is because of extended periods of time without use. Not enough use has a tendency to shock the system when it’s turned on again.
Troubleshooting the Problem:
When there’s a problem with the compressor or clutch, the AC system won’t be able to provide cold air for long. The problem could be as simple as a blown fuse. Any other causes are best left for a professional auto mechanic to determine.
A Malfunctioning Expansion Valve
If the AC switches from hot to cold by itself, then back again, it’s likely being caused by a malfunctioning expansion valve. The job of the expansion valve is to distribute the right amount of refrigerant to the evaporator. If the valve ends up blocked, refrigerant flow is compromised.
Troubleshooting the Problem:
Signs that you have a malfunctioning expansion valve include a lack of performance with the AC, the compressor constantly runs, frost is coming from the vents, or on AC evaporator. If you think that the expansion valve is having a problem, have the vehicle’s air conditioning system checked out by a professional auto technician.
Electrical Issues or Blown Fuses
A vehicle’s AC system is comprised of an intricate bundle of wires, fuses, switches, and relays. If just one of these components fails, the AC can end up shutting down, blowing warm air, or not work altogether.
Troubleshooting the Problem:
If you feel you’re dealing with an electrical issue, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and frustration by having an experienced auto repair technician troubleshoot the problem.
Faulty Cooling Fan
When cooling fans malfunction, the condenser can’t cool properly, over time, causing the AC to blow hot air. In addition, faulty cooling fans can end up blowing fuses and cause other electrical issues.
Troubleshooting the Problem:
The best way to find out if the cooling fan is broken is to inspect it visually.
Car AC not working? That doesn’t mean been it’s going to cost a lot to repair. As a matter of fact, some fixes are relatively inexpensive.
If your car AC isn’t working, contact us – we can help!
