What Should Be Checked On My Car’s A/C This Spring?

What Should Be Checked On My Car’s A/C This Spring?

Considering the countless hours you spend inside your vehicle each and every day, you can’t be blamed for wanting to keep your cool. Your car’s air conditioning is one of those things you don’t want to see die in a pool of your own sweat, especially if your passengers are young or old and/or have allergies. With that in mind, the best way to avoid having to rely on the aforementioned power outlets is to do your homework before you pull out of the driveway. Using a few simple tools and some knowledge you can rest assured you’ll be enjoying the tween months in style.

Refrigerant Levels

The air conditioning system in your car works by circulating pressurized refrigerant. When the amount of refrigerant drops too low, it can impact the performance of the system. A common symptom of this is that the air conditioner is blowing warm or room temperature air. It may also reduce your gas mileage by forcing the system to work harder. You can check your refrigerant levels yourself with the help of a gauge and a can of R-134A freon. Simply pop the hood and locate your low-pressure line and port, then connect the refrigerant gauge. If the pressure reading is lower than 20 psi, it means that there’s not enough freon in the system. The compressor clutch will not engage unless there’s sufficient freon.

Belts & Hoses

The belts and hoses that connect your car’s A/C and heater systems are one of the most important parts to check. They work together to pump refrigerant from the compressor to the evaporator and then back to the condenser, and they also help move air through your vents. In order for your car to function properly, these hoses must be free from damage and kinks. Regular inspections and replacements of these parts will ensure that your vehicle stays road-ready for years to come. Your hoses should be replaced every 50,000 miles or at the first sign of damage to ensure they’re performing their job effectively. These components are subjected to a wide range of temperature extremes and chemicals, as well as vibration and other effects that can accelerate their deterioration.

Thermostat

n many cases, a broken thermostat is the first sign of an issue with your HVAC system. It allows you to set your temperature and automatically activates the air conditioner when necessary. Some issues with thermostats are easy to resolve and can be done on your own without professional help. However, some thermostat problems require a little bit more expertise and knowledge to fix. In this case, we recommend getting a professional to handle the issue for you. They can check your thermostat’s wiring and other components to see if the problem is within the unit itself.

Categorised in: Auto AC Service, Refrigerant

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