After a cold winter, you can very easily find out whether your car’s air conditioner is in good condition. Nikita Rodionov, technical director of the international franchise network of car service centers Fit Service, told Motor magazine about this.
“Do a simple test in the spring. With the engine warm, turn on the air conditioning at minimum temperature and maximum fan, open the vents, and let the system run for 3-5 minutes. Normally, the air should quickly become cold and remain stable,” Rodionov said.
According to the interlocutor, extraneous sounds from the compressor, crackling or whistling belts, vibrations, weak or floating cooling are reasons for diagnosis. These are signs of a drop in refrigerant pressure, problems with the compressor clutch, its bearing or sensors.
The expert also advised to inspect the condenser – the air conditioning radiator in front of the main engine radiator. During the winter, its honeycombs become clogged with dirt, sand, reagents and poplar fluff. This impairs airflow and heat transfer. The compressor is overloaded, and the driver experiences mild cold in the cabin and the risk of unit breakdown.
Visual inspection of the condenser and lines also allows you to notice leaks at an early stage. These may be oil stains and greenish marks near fittings and joints. This is how the refrigerant comes out with the compressor oil. Next, professional diagnostics will be required at a car service center, the specialist noted.
Rodionov also emphasized that the air conditioner evaporator in the heater unit should be treated with an antibacterial compound through the air ducts. This neutralizes bacterial and fungal colonies that cause damp odors and allergies.
Even if the air conditioner is blowing cold, a basic check should be carried out once a year: checking the pressure, evaluating the compressor, fan, condenser and filter. Full service with evacuation, replacement of the filter-drier and refilling – every 3-5 years, Rodionov warned.
Previously, it became clear how many hours the driver has to remove the poplar buds without any problems.
