It may be Fall in other parts of the US, but the weather is far from it in Merritt Island, FL, where A/C is still a MUST. If you've remarked your vehicle's air conditioning is losing its cooling factor, you may leak some sort. A/C leaks, unlike engine oil leaks, aren't easy to spot at all, so read on to learn how to detect the signs of refrigerant leaks.
Your vehicle's A/C is a complex system that cools the air and regulates humidity inside the cabin. It consists of various major components, including a condenser, evaporator, compressor, and more. To keep the inside of your car conditioned, a colorless (and odorless) refrigerant liquid flows through the entire system. As the refrigerant moves through your vehicle, it goes through both liquid and gas states. Refrigerant can leak at any point these sequences, especially when the parts of the system have become loose, worn, or damaged. Since refrigerant is a vapor at specific processes of the cooling cycle, a tiny crack or unnoticeable puncture anywhere can allow it to escape without any visible signs.
How To Spot an A/C Leak
- A/C Blowing Warm Air - If you feel like your vehicle's air conditioning is blowing air at 80°F, even though the temperature is set at its lowest, you may be losing refrigerant. However, leaks aren't the only possible reason why your vehicle may be blowing warm air. An inspection of your A/C system by our team at Robbie's At Your Service can reveal to you the exact location and nature of the problem.
- Clicking Sounds - If you find a clicking noise while your car A/C blasts, your compressor might be short cycling. In many circumstances, it is especially pronounced from the outside of a car. A short cycling car A/C compressor can be caused by several factors, including low refrigerant levels resulting from a leak.
- Dashboard Alerts - In some newer vehicles, an impairment in the A/C system will likely trigger some sort of warning light on your dashboard. Please keep in mind that this may not apply to your vehicle! The best way to know whether or not you have A/C problems is to take your car to a trusted technician.
If you're sweating in your car, take action now! Please bring your car to Robbie's At Your Service for professional diagnostics and auto A/C repairs to help you keep your car cool year round in Merritt Island, FL.