Only, sometimes it doesn’t. The oasis of your car’s air conditioning has turned out to be a mirage.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Air conditioning systems are fickle beasts. There are so many little issues that can balloon to huge problems with the AC system in your car. One of the more frustrating aspects of this often overlooked system is that there are no real warning lights to alert you to an AC problem. Oil problem? There’s a light for that. Low on gas? There’s a light for that. Mysterious engine problem? Yup, there’s a light for that, too. But, there’s no indication that your AC system is on the fritz until it’s too late.
WHAT ISSUES?
WEAK AIRFLOW
Weak airflow is one of the more common symptoms you will experience. Once it blew strong, and now it just kinda gently brushes you with air. A loose hose is often the culprit and can be an easy fix. Sometimes, the ventilation fan is broken. If the fan isn’t blowing, air wont flow well. Worst case, however, is if seal/seals have come open. AC systems are very sensitive and self contained, and must remain sealed. Once they’re opened, the entire system is compromised.
NOT BLOWING AS COLD
There are many reasons why an AC system can stop blowing ice. Having your AC system inspected as soon as you notice a drop in cold can mean the difference between a small repair or a large one. Freon may have leaked due to a failed o-ring, seal, or hose. There might be a clogged hose somewhere. The compressor or blower motor may have failed, or there might even be a vacuum leak. Leaks can be absolutely devastating. When an AC system develops a leak, you have an “open system” meaning moisture and other particulate matter can enter the system and wreak havoc. If the leak is caught early, it will be less expensive to repair.
STARTS OUT COOL, THEN GETS WARM
This problem is never an easy one to answer. The best bet would be to have your AC system inspected to determine what the underlying issue is. You may have a clogged valves, a faulty compressor clutch, a dreaded leak, or even a blown fuse. This particular problem, however, isn’t just limited to those possible problems.
MY AC SMELLS LIKE A GYM LOCKER
Even if it’s blowing cold, an AC system that is blowing the odor of smelly feet at you is never pleasant. Having your system inspected for mold and mildew could help get to the bottom of the problem.
WHY DOES AN AC SYSTEM FAIL?
Age and moisture, simple enough. Father time is undefeated, and that notion extends into the various systems of our vehicles. Rubber seals and hoses lose their elasticity over time, resulting in a bevy of problems. Moisture, however, is the death knell for your AC system. Water, when mixed with the refrigerant in your system, creates a destructive corrosive acid. If moisture makes it into the system, it could damage many components and result in the complete failure of the AC system.
Take advantage of our current service promotion and have your AC system fully inspected for performance and pressure! Don’t take a chance on your cold air during these hot days!