Some car owners may view servicing some parts of their car as optional. For example, many car owners neglect to have a technician check over their automobile’s AC system. Yet, this can leave you vulnerable to failure during North Carolina’s scorching summers. However, buying a recharge car air conditioner kit can damage important components. For professional service, choose Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.

A Basic Overview Of Your Vehicle’s AC System

The interiors of cars can become dangerously hot, especially during a North Carolina summer. However, thanks to Willis Carrier, the inventor of air conditioning, you can stay cool.

Your car’s AC system is a closed system circulating a chemical substance, refrigerant. As the refrigerant moves throughout the system, it changes state. It transforms from a gas to a liquid to a gas in a continuous loop. When your refrigerant changes state, it either absorbs or releases heat.

Several parts work together to keep your car’s cabin cool:

• Refrigerant
• Condenser
• Evaporator
• Expansion valve
• Blower motor and fan
• Accumulator
• Seals and hoses
• Electrical components

A failure in any one of these parts can result in a system malfunction. However, having an inoperative air conditioning system is more than just driving around in a hot vehicle. Automakers design engines with interconnected systems. Thus, driving with a broken part can put a strain on your entire engine resulting in premature wear.

Signs You May Need To Recharge Car Air Conditioner

You can usually tell if your air conditioning system needs servicing by observing some signs:

• Warm air from your vents
• Cool air soon turns warm
• Visible refrigerant leaks
• Bad odor coming from your vents
• Strange engine noises

Several issues can prevent cool air from circulating into your cabin:

1. Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak is the most common reason for the failure of air conditioning in vehicles. Sometimes, you may need to recharge or add refrigerant to your system. Deteriorated clamps holding hoses can allow the refrigerant to escape. Brittle and cracked seals and gaskets may also be the problem.

Unfortunately, refrigerant is a colorless and odorless substance that rarely leaves evidence of a leak. Moreover, checking levels is tricky for the DIYer since it’s a sealed system.

2. Broken Condenser

Your car’s condenser is the place the refrigerant releases heat and as it does, it becomes a liquid. Typically, automakers locate it in front of the radiator making it susceptible to damage from road debris. Additionally, this position also exposes it to winter road brine which hastens corrosion.

3. Faulty Compressor

As its name suggests, the compressor puts the refrigerant under high pressure or compresses it. The compressor is also responsible for pumping the refrigerant throughout the system. Although many compressors will last the lifetime of your vehicle, low refrigerant can cause premature failure. Without proper levels, the compressor must work harder undergoing unnecessary strain.

4. Electrical Problems

A computer monitors and controls your interior cabin climate while electricity powers the system. For example, sensors take samples sending data to the car’s microprocessor. The computer then makes adjustments based on the data. When you have a blown fuse, failed switch, or damaged wiring within the system, your car’s air conditioner won’t work.

Required Automotive Maintenance For Air Conditioners

Of course, anytime you experience a problem with your air conditioning, you need a qualified technician to diagnose the issue. However, you should also perform periodic servicing to avoid system failure. To keep your AC functioning properly, you should service it at least once a year.

While your car’s AC system is a closed system, tiny leaks can develop from corroded or worn parts. These can be impossible for the average car owner to find and need specialized equipment to detect. Without an optimal level of refrigerant, your system will strain to keep your cabin cool. This can lead to more expensive repairs.

When you bring your car in for annual servicing, your technician can check the level of refrigerant. If necessary, your mechanic can add more refrigerant or recharge your system.

Recharge Car Air Conditioner – FAQS

Do you still have questions about the best way to recharge car air conditioner? Below we answer a few more questions. If you have others, call us at 336 993-7697 and one of our friendly staff members will assist you.

Can I Recharge My Car’s AC At Home?

Many automotive experts recommend avoiding using a DIY kit for several reasons. First, professionals have the technical knowledge and specialized tools necessary to properly perform this task. For example, automakers used different refrigerants depending on the year of your vehicle. Using the wrong one can damage components.

Furthermore, it’s critical to add just the right amount of refrigerant. Professionals will weigh the refrigerant to determine the optimal level. However, DIY kits use pressure when adding refrigerant. This can lead to adding too much or too little to your system. Either situation can damage air conditioner parts.

How Much Does A Professional Recharge Cost?

Generally, a simple recharge is an inexpensive maintenance task. Many times, however, car servicing isn’t straightforward and requires additional work. For example, you may have a brittle and crumbling seal that needs replacing to prevent your refrigerant from escaping.

When you bring your car to us, we’ll give you a detailed estimate before we begin working on your vehicle. While you’re free to take your car elsewhere, we think you’ll love our competitive pricing and friendly service.

What Automotive Services Can Havoline® Xpress Lube Of Kernersville Perform?

Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville is a family-owned and operated full-service repair and maintenance facility. For over 25 years, we’ve been servicing the local community of Kernersville with quality service at competitive prices. Our ASE-certified mechanics can diagnose and fix both domestic and foreign vehicles.

If you’re experiencing air conditioning problems, we can find the problem and provide the solution. Call us today at 336-993-7697 to make your appointment.