[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Current Location
[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] | Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Go

News

19

A/C Problems Demystified

posted on 7/19/2016 1:00:35 PM

Believe it or not, the A/C system in your vehicle is fairly simple in principle and design. Like your refrigerator, it operates on a cycle of compression and expansion of a gas, known as refrigerant. The compressor turns the gas into a liquid, and as the gas evaporates it provides cooling. Like your refrigerator, its main components are: 
 
  • Compressor
  • Condenser 
  • Receiver/dryer
  • Thermostatic expansion valve
  • Evaporator
  • Refrigerant
  • Blower 
The good news is most automotive A/C systems have become very robust and reliable compared to cars from a generation ago. Most of the time, poor performance is due to low refrigerant levels due to leaks in the system around the O-rings, gaskets, seals, and lines (which can all dry out and shrink). Low refrigerant can mean other problems though. Since refrigerant contains oil which lubricates the compressor, low levels of refrigerant can mean an overheated compressor sending tiny shards of metal through the rest of the system to wreak havoc. 
 
These are sure signs of problems: 
 
  • A/C that's barely cooler than the air outside
  • A/C only blows cold while car is moving, not at idle 
  • Metallic clicking under the hood, as the compressor's magnetic clutch cycles the compressor on and off
  • Musty, "dirty socks" smell from air vents
  • Volume of air from vents is never enough
Obviously, all these components can potentially fail...but often they fail due to low refrigerant levels, and even a late model vehicle can lose five to ten percent of its refrigerant over a year's time. Why take chances? Recharging the system with refrigerant is easy and inexpensive, and should be part of your A/C system's (and your car's) routine maintenance! 
Categories: Auto Repair 101 | View Count: (22) | Return

Related

Visit Our Shop

Contact Us

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (334) 770-2715
Fax:
Address: 114 Hwy 231 N.
Troy, AL 36081
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (850) 775-4779
Fax:
Address: 506 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Powered by Net Driven
Login

Quality Automotive Repair & Tires in Troy, AL

Tire Brokers proudly provides top-notch automotive repair and tire services, including commercial service, to Troy and surrounding areas in Alabama. We strive to offer great customer service with a smile as well as outstanding customer service every time. Our services are performed by highly trained technicians so you can be confident you are receiving quality service when you visit our shop. We offer a wide range of automotive services including oil changes, brake repair and wheel alignments. for both passenger and commercial vehicles. Shopping for new tires in Troy? Let us help you choose from our large selection of tires to fit your passenger or commercial vehicle. We feature tires that fit your needs and budget from top quality brands, such as Michelin®, BFGoodrich®, Uniroyal® and more. Let us earn your business and exceed your expectations. Schedule an appointment online today!