When the air conditioning in your car or truck is working efficiently, it’s a modern day miracle, especially on a steaming hot summer afternoon. However, when something goes wrong with your A/C unit, nothing can turn the frown upside down. If you’ve found yourself in a situation like this, then here are a few things you should know about potential automotive air conditioning repairs.
Weak Airflow?
Weak airflow, especially on a hot day, isn’t something you want to deal with. There are many factors that can play a role in your reduction of airflow. Some of the main causes include a buildup of mould or mildew in the evaporator core due to leftover moisture from the cooling process, a loose hose, fried ventilation fan or open seals that are diminishing airflow.
Is Cold Air Getting Warmer?
Unfortunately, there isn’t one simple answer regarding why your cold air grows warmer over time. You could be dealing with a clogged expansion valve, which prevents the refrigerant from flowing to the evaporator. A faulty compressor clutch, where the clutch isn’t able to engage with the compressor and, therefore, the compressor can’t sustain the proper pressure. Or maybe a fuse has blown, stopping power from reaching the A/C system entirely. Whatever the case may be, a reliable technician should be able to figure it out.
A Weird Scent Coming from the Vents?
There are several issues that can cause an odour problem within your A/C system, some of which include having a dirty and/or old air cabin filter or having a mouldy evaporator case. This can be a problem for a variety of vehicles. When water sits in the case for a while, it will cause mould to accumulate and produce a bad smell.
How are Leaks Tested for?
Using a black light to detect dyes, which are made with UV properties, are usually pre-mixed with a variety of refrigerants on the market. Using a black light, a technician will run it over your air conditioning system to determine if there’s refrigerant anywhere there shouldn’t be. A “sniffer” is also used, which is a small device that zeroes in on the chemical compounds in refrigerants.
What Causes an A/C Leak?
The simple answer is age and moisture. Over time the rubber seals and hoses will lose their elasticity, breaking down. This allows Freon to escape while moisture enters your air conditioning unit. Once moisture comes in contact with your A/C system, mixing with refrigerant, you’ll end up with a system that’s been destroyed by corrosive acid.
At White Rock Auto, our certified and licensed technicians are dedicated to getting your vehicle up and running as quickly and efficiently as possible. Located in Surrey, British Columbia, we service all major car brands, from Audi and Mercedes to Honda and Toyota. Our Surrey auto repair shop offers a variety of services that revolve around vehicle inspections, diagnostic, upgrades and repairs. Brake services, oil changes, fuel efficiency and more, we do major and minor work on trucks, cars and vans that include all parts of the vehicle. Established in 1989 and working hard ever since, be sure to visit our Surrey car service shop for your next tune-up.