We have all been there, sitting in a hot stuffy car, breathing in dust with sweating pouring off your forehead. Your air conditioning system needs to be in good shape to be operating ideally, and needs to be maintained just like any mechanical component of your vehicle. We don’t just know about windshield repair you know! Here are five things to be aware of to ensure your air conditioning system is running nice and cool.
1. Check the air conditioning mounting bolts are in place and secure. Like any parts in an engine, these can become dislodged or work loose, especially on older vehicles
2. With your engine running, check if the compressor clutch engages when the air conditioning is switched on. If it doesn’t this could mean that there is low refrigerant present or an electrical problem. Also listen out for clicking noises when the air conditioning is switched on, which can also have low refrigerant. If these problems occur, then you will need to get a specialist air condition technician to test your compressor fully as it may be faulty or need to be replaced.
3. Are all caps installed on the air conditioning system service ports? These ensure that dirt is kept out and provides a good seal for refrigerant
4. Check hoses and belts around the air condition unit and cooling system. Check for any cracks, splits, signs of leaking, abrasion and glazing. Your air conditioning system may be letting you down simply to a cracked hose or worn belt, which is a cheap fix!
5. Check that the condenser which is in front of the radiator is free from obstructions, such as any dirt, leaves or dead insects. This is often a common cause of reducing the airflow to the air conditioning system. You can then rinse down the condenser with a hose, often just by doing regularly ensures your air conditioning unit is in tip-top condition.