top of page

Air-conditioning Maintenance Guide 

Because we live in a temperate climate, there are often long stretches of time where you feel you do not need to use your car’s Air Conditioning. This is often where problems start…..

​

Even during the Winter months, it is a good idea to run your Air Conditioning System for at least a few minutes each week, this will help to keep the system lubricated and all the parts running smoothly.  

​

It will also help to clear fog off the windows, and, at the same time, you will be helping to preserve the system for when you need it the most.

​

One of the most common causes of Air Conditioning problems is a lack of refrigerant; it is a good idea to head off this problem before it occurs. Have your car’s Air Conditioning System serviced every 2 years. It will state this in your car manufacturers service guide.

​

Over time a buildup of moisture can occur in the system and this mixed with the gas can turn acidic and cause corrosion to the pipes and O-rings.

​

Regular maintenance is an ideal way to head off all these costly problems with your Air Conditioning.

​

A healthy serviced AC system will:

  • Improve fuel economy 

  • Keep the cabin feeling fresh, dry and cool

  • Demist windows quickly

  • Be less likely to leak and need expensive repairs!

​

 

How it all works....

A car air conditioning system works by taking in hot air from inside the car, passing it through a refrigerant, which absorbs the heat and cools the air. The cooled air is then blown back into the car, providing a comfortable temperature for the occupants. The refrigerant cycles through the system, changing from a gas to a liquid and back again, absorbing and releasing heat along the way. This process is facilitated by components such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator and dryer. 

ac-accumulator-explained-1_edited_edited

Compressor

The compressor (aka the heart) in a car air conditioning system pressurises and circulates the refrigerant, compressing it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas before it is cooled and condensed back into a liquid.

AC_Compressor.jpg

Condenser 

The condenser (looks like radiator) in a car air conditioning system cools the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas, causing it to condense into a liquid form, ready to be circulated back through the system.

--2_123196.jpg
bottom of page