Today's cars are fitted with air conditioning systems. However, just like all other man-made systems, your car's air conditioning can experience malfunctioning. So how do you what's wrong with your car's air conditioning unit? Well, this article outlines some of the possible causes of a malfunctioning car air conditioner.

Refrigerant breakdown

Refrigerant serves as a working fluid the same way motor oil lubricates the car's engine. Refrigerant breakdown often causes nasty wear, commencing in the compressor. Following compressor breakdown, the resulting sharp and mucky metal particles travel across the rest of the A/C system, causing mayhem in the entire system. Cold air as well as air movement is no longer possible.

Blocked expansion valve

The expansion valve is responsible for proper distribution of refrigerant to the evaporator in order for the cooling process to occur. Any blockage inside the valve restricts the flow of the refrigerant into the evaporator. As a result, the refrigerant may be trapped inside the valve and may begin to freeze the valve especially if there is moisture present.

Damaged evaporator

The buildup of mould or mildew in the evaporator core may cause limited cold air flow. As you are probably aware, mould are likely to prop up where there is presence of moisture. The cooling process often generates residual moisture, which accumulates in the evaporator coil causing the buildup of mould or mildew. As a result, the blockage prevents cold air from accessing you're the air vents.

A/C system leak

The breakdown of seals such as blower house seals, core case seals and evaporator core case seals can cause the seals to open up and curtail air movement. Air conditioner ventilation systems are especially sensitive to open air and should remain sealed or else the entire A/C will be compromised. The breakdown of seals results in an A/C system leak which causes what's referred to as an 'open system'. 

Leaks are the worst nightmare to any A/C system. Leaks or cracks provide an opportunity for moisture to penetrate into the A/C system, which results in damage to other important parts including the accumulator, drier or receiver. The blend of moisture and refrigerant forms a dangerous corrosive acid that damages the rubber seals.

As far as car air conditioning problems are concerned, if one problem is left unresolved it may cause further damage to the entire A/C system. The best protection is to schedule regular A/C performance checks with a professional car air conditioner technician such as 1st Choice Mechanical Repairs.

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