Air Conditioning

The summer heat is just around the corner, and before you turn on the air conditioning on this summer, there’s a couple of things to check out to ensure your A/C is working properly.

Check the drive belt under the hood for wear, cracks and/or even stretches. The drive belt makes the A/C turn, and that keeps the cooling refrigerant circulating like it should. If the drive belt is bad, the belt could slip or break causing the compressor to stop.

The drive belt and compressor are sometimes difficult to locate, particularly in newer vehicles with covers and components that hide them. A mechanic technician can help you locate the belt and compressor next time you take your vehicle to the shop.

The A/C condenser is positioned in front of the vehicle’s radiator, which looks like a mini radiator. Refrigerant goes though the condenser and air flow across its cooling fins, removing heat from the circulating refrigerant.

If the fan fins ever become damaged or plugged up with debris, airflow is limited, causing heat to remain in the air vents. This airflow limitation can cause a vehicle to over-heat. Check the fan fins occasionally to make sure they are clean and in good condition.

Signs of air conditioning problems:

• If your carpet is wet on hot, humid day that is good indication that your A/C drain might be clogged. When the A/C drain is working properly you will see a good amount of water dripping on the ground under the vehicle when it’s in park.

• Any vibration or unusual noise when you turn the fan on could imply debris in the fan. (Mice like to make a nest in the fan).

• A reduced amount of air coming out of the vents probably means that the A/C’s evaporator is freezing up. This particularly happens after driving for awhile.

• Mold or mildew can grow in the evaporator of your A/C. To check if you have mold or mildew growing, turn on your fan, and if you smell a musty or mildew odor, you should check it out.

You can reduce mold and mildew by turning the A/C recirculation switch off when you park your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn’t have a recirculation switch, turn the A/C switch away from the “Max Air” position every time you shut your engine off. Some vehicles will still develop a musty odor, but many service departments offer an evaporator cleaning produce to get rid of the smell.

Most people wonder if running the A/C down the road is fuel efficient. Yes, air conditioner design these days are pretty efficient.

If you discover a problem with your vehicle’s A/C, take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic technician.