#1 – your car’s A/C system has been recently serviced or charged, so it’s working properly. In this case, you just want to maximize the cold air output. The system isn’t malfunctioning – you just want colder air. Here’s the fix: if the outside air is dry (basically 100% of the time in places like Arizona), use your car’s “Fresh Air” setting. This brings in the outside atmosphere and allows the A/C system to cool the dry, hot air efficiently. If it’s hot, sticky & humid outside, set your air control to “Recirculate.” In this mode, your car will reuse existing air and also avoid the extra-humid conditions to enter the car’s interior cabin.
#2 – you’re not sure exactly what is wrong. If your air conditioning isn’t blowing cold, it’s probably due to wear & tear. Just like anything else on your car (brakes, hoses, tires, etc.), the A/C system can get old in a hurry. The refrigerant is the main factor in determining your A/C temperature. As this refrigerant wears out, the system is less efficient at turning the liquid into a gas. This gas makes the air cold. In this situation, you can take your car to an air conditioning service specialist to have the refrigerant replaced. Environmentally-friendly standards require minimal (or zero) harmful emissions from air conditioning systems, and the new refrigerant is designated R-134a, which replaced the old R-12 style, commonly referred to as “Freon.”
Aside from the refrigerant, the compressor is usually the next trouble spot. As the main component in your car’s A/C system, the compressor’s job is to compress and transfer the refrigerant gas. If you’re a do-it-yourself type, buy and install your own compressor. You’ll not only save money, but you’ll also notice instant improvement to your A/C temperature.
BuyAutoParts.com offers a variety of air conditioning components, along with specialized kits and high-quality compressors. To speak with a BuyAutoParts.com A/C specialist, please call (888) 907-7225. Our in-house auto experts can help you troubleshoot your air conditioning issues, offer advice on a part or help with a recent order.
Thanks for reading the BAP blog – if you’re having trouble staying cool behind the wheel, don’t wait until the boiling point. Try the tips & tricks above, or give us a call today.
Written by Dara Greaney
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