No matter what the weather, we know it’s hard to keep your cool when your air conditioning isn’t working properly. Using your electrical system, engine, and the transference of chemicals through a heat exchanger makes these systems rather complex and expensive to repair. Also, today’s systems actually run the A/C while the heater is running, to take moisture out of the warmer air, so it’s not uncommon to have your A/C system running almost whenever you drive. It’s just natural that over time, refrigerant and oil will begin to leak from the system, resulting in less cool air being produced or complete failure of a system component.
Today’s vehicles make use of one of two types of refrigerant: Freon 134A or Freon 1234y. Both contain a small amount of oil which helps to lubricate components while in operation. Operating under pressure, this refrigerant will eventually find a leak point and slowly leave the system, rendering your A/C weak and ineffective. And since there is a leak, it can also collect moisture, making the fluid corrosive to system components as well.
This is why preventative maintenance is so important: with regular inspection and repair, you’ll be able to catch small problems before they become costly larger repairs. With so many components…compressor, clutch, hoses, filter/dryer, condenser, pressure switches and more…it’s always best to come see us at the first sign of any A/C malfunction.
Your heater, while making use of most of the A/C system, uses engine coolant circulated into the cabin of your vehicle through a heater core, which is like a smaller radiator mounted inside your passenger compartment. For best operation, your cooling system must be leak-free and operating properly.
If you are experiencing any of the following, call Tilden Car Care Center right away as these are signs there may be an issue with your A/C:
- Improper cooling
- Fan does not start
- A musty smell coming from your A/C
- Condensation forms on your windshield when the vehicle is first started
- Warm air from the A/C vents
Here are some common questions to ask your service advisor:
- When it's hot outside, should I turn the air conditioning on immediately? Or should I roll the windows down and let the car run before engaging the A/C?
- If my A/C system is not cooling properly, can I damage it if I keep using it anyway?
- Is liquid dripping from the bottom of my vehicle normal when using the A/C?
- What is wrong with my A/C if it is emitting a musty smell from the vents?
- I hear a clicking under my hood and the A/C is cooling inconsistently. What is wrong with the system?
- What are the benefits of R-134a refrigerant? Should I switch my older vehicle over from R-12 or Freon refrigerant?
At Tilden Car Care Center; your complete automotive care center we have all your repair and maintenance needs covered. We have three locations to serve you around the Fort Worth, TX area including one in White Settlement, TX. We install only quality replacement parts. Give us a call at any of our three locations. Are you wondering which location is most convenient? Call (817) 246-4100 we can help you find the location that is right for you. Let us help keep you safely and economically on the road. We service all makes and models and offer free shuttle services.