Everything About Car Air Conditioning
In this article from Atlas Yadak, we aim to introduce you to one of the most important comfort systems in a car, the car air conditioning system. The vehicle's cooling and heating system not only plays a significant role in the comfort of the driver and passengers, but it can also serve as a key factor when comparing different vehicles. In the following, we will examine the operation of the car air conditioning system, its importance, and key maintenance tips to extend its lifespan. If you want your car's air conditioning to always perform at its best, don't miss this article!
How the Car Air Conditioning System Works
The operation of cooling systems, including car air conditioners, is based on similar principles. These systems use a fluid that circulates between a cold and hot source, performing the heat exchange process and cooling the space. In car air conditioners, this process begins with the compression of gas in the compressor. The compressor, which gets its power from the vehicle's engine via the alternator belt, pushes the gas under high pressure toward the condenser. In the condenser, the gas loses heat and turns into a liquid.
This liquid then passes through the capillary tube, also known as the expansion valve, and due to a drop in pressure, it transforms into a two-phase state. This two-phase substance enters the evaporator, where it absorbs the surrounding heat and changes back into a gas. At this point, the fan kicks in and blows air from around the evaporator tubes into the cabin. The air, now cooled, enters the cabin and provides a comfortable and cool environment, even on the hottest summer days.
Is Your Car’s Air Conditioning Working Well?
If you feel like your car's air conditioning system is not working properly, keep reading this article as we take a closer look at common issues and key components of the car air conditioning system, and offer solutions for improving its performance.
Main Components of the Car Air Conditioning System and Their Roles
The car air conditioning system is made up of several key parts, each playing a specific role in the cooling process. Below, we’ll explore these components along with the potential signs of failure:
Compressor
The compressor is the heart of the car air conditioning system. It is responsible for compressing the refrigerant gas and gets its power from the alternator belt and the car's engine. Without proper compressor function, the cooling system effectively stops working.
Signs of Compressor Failure
If the compressor is faulty, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Depleted car battery
- Thermostat failure
- Gap between the clutch and pulley
- Faulty compressor relay
**Note**: The most common sign of compressor failure is a weakening car battery, which should be taken seriously.
Condenser
The condenser is another critical component of the system, functioning similarly to a radiator. The high-pressure gas enters the condenser and loses heat, turning into liquid. This cooled liquid exits the condenser and continues the cooling process.
Expansion Valve
The expansion valve regulates the amount of gas flowing from the condenser to the evaporator while simultaneously reducing the pressure. This component maintains the thermal balance of the system and adjusts the cooling capacity of the evaporator.
Signs of Expansion Valve Failure
1. Excessive noise from the air conditioner
If the air conditioning system produces too much noise, it might indicate a problem with the expansion valve. In this case, you should immediately have the air conditioning checked by a mechanic.
2. Continuous operation of the air conditioner
If the air conditioning runs continuously without stopping, it might be due to a malfunction in the temperature sensor, which can be related to the expansion valve failure.
Dryer (Receiver-Drier)
Located between the condenser and the evaporator, the dryer absorbs moisture from the system. This part uses a chemical substance to prevent the formation of ice crystals, as the presence of water can disrupt the air conditioning system’s performance and cause damage.
Evaporator
The evaporator is responsible for absorbing heat from the cabin. When the refrigerant liquid enters the evaporator, it absorbs heat and evaporates. This process cools the air passing over the evaporator and sends cold air into the cabin.
Air Conditioning Fan
The air conditioning fan is the final component in the cooling system, responsible for circulating the air. It moves the cold air from the evaporator into the cabin, making the interior of the car cool and pleasant.
Important Tips for Optimal Use of Your Car’s Air Conditioning
1. Ventilate the cabin before turning on the air conditioning:
As soon as you enter the car, don't immediately turn on the air conditioning. First, open the windows and let the air inside the cabin change. This prevents the buildup of toxic gases such as gasoline fumes, which can accumulate during hot summer days. With proper ventilation, there is no cause for concern.
2. The impact of air conditioning on fuel consumption:
Contrary to common belief, turning on the air conditioning doesn’t significantly increase fuel consumption. However, it is advisable not to put too much strain on the engine while using the air conditioning to maintain optimal fuel efficiency. Note that driving with the windows open at high speeds increases air resistance, which can consume more fuel than running the air conditioning.
3. Preventing cabin heat buildup:
To reduce the initial temperature of the cabin, park your car in a shaded area or under a shelter. This not only reduces the energy consumption of the air conditioning system but also improves its performance.
4. How to turn on the air conditioning:
Turn on the air conditioning when the car is at low speed and low RPM. After turning it on, increase the fan speed to expel the warm air remaining in the ventilation pipes more quickly.
5. Use the recirculation mode:
In polluted air or when driving through tunnels, activate the recirculation mode on the air conditioning. This helps improve air quality and cool the cabin faster.
6. Managing the air conditioning in tough conditions:
In heavy traffic or when driving uphill, continuous use of the air conditioning can put extra strain on the engine. To prevent this, turn off the air conditioning periodically or lower the cooling setting.
7. Regular air conditioning check-ups:
Before the start of the hot season, check the performance of your car's air conditioning to ensure it’s in good condition. This simple step can prevent potential problems in the future.
8. Check the radiator water regularly:
A low radiator water level can lead to the engine overheating, which impacts the performance of the air conditioning system. Therefore, always check the water level in the radiator and ensure it’s adequate.
9. Drive at lower speeds:
At low speeds, use higher gears. This helps the air conditioning system work more efficiently and prevents damage to the vehicle’s components.
By following these tips, not only will you maintain the performance of your air conditioning, but you will also ensure the health of your car.
Car Air Conditioning Recharge
The gas used in car air conditioning systems is typically R134. Over time, this gas decreases, requiring recharging. When talking about recharging the air conditioning, it refers to refilling the refrigerant tank. This should generally be done once every two years. Keep in mind that various gases are available on the market, but you should always use the same type of gas that was originally used in the system for recharging. Mixing different gases can reduce the performance of the system. Also, running the air conditioning with low or no gas can severely damage the compressor. To maintain optimal air conditioning performance and avoid potential damage, regular and proper recharging is essential.
Signs of Car Air Conditioning Failure
One of the most noticeable signs of air conditioning failure is the inability to cool the cabin air, which is easy to spot. Additionally, if the air conditioner doesn’t turn on or you hear unusual noises from the motor when turning it on, these are also signs of a malfunctioning system. In such cases, it’s best to immediately turn off the air conditioning and take the car to a mechanic. This article also extensively discusses the signs of expansion valve and compressor failures, which can help diagnose the issue quickly.
What Are the Consequences of Continuous Use of the Car Air Conditioning?
Continuous and uninterrupted use of the car air conditioning can lead to expansion valve failure, as excessive pressure is applied to the ventilation system, disrupting its performance.
Why Shouldn’t You Turn on the Air Conditioning Immediately After Entering the Car?
In the summer heat, entering the car causes toxic gases such as gasoline fumes to accumulate in the cabin, which can pose serious risks. By leaving the windows open for a few minutes, the cabin air naturally ventilates, reducing these risks.
What Is the Connection Between Radiator Water and Car Air Conditioning?
A low radiator water level can lead to the engine overheating, which impacts the performance of the air conditioning system and prevents it from cooling the cabin effectively.
Mehdi Khorrami –
01/01/2024 –
Combat headquarters with the first comment