Does My Vehicle’s A/C Have a Fluid Lead?

Auto A/C Repair in Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, IA

Air Conditioner Overview

Few things provide as much comfort as your vehicle's air conditioner on a hot day. To keep your passenger cabin comfortable, the system uses refrigerant that changes physical states to cool and dry the air blowing through your vents. As the refrigerant circulates, the compressor pressurizes the refrigerant. The condenser cools it and changes its state again. The expansion valve or orifice tube controls the flow to the evaporator. The evaporator helps the air to cool. The accumulator/receiver/dryer removes moisture. Although some drivers find knowing the basics about these components helpful, Mad Hatter Auto Repair in Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa, will take care of all the auto A/C repair details for you.

How to Detect a Leak

While it's best to have Mad Hatter Auto Repair inspect your car's A/C periodically, there are some signs that you may notice that indicate a potential leak. Perhaps you wonder what can leak in an air conditioner. Usually, a leak refers to refrigerant, but it can also refer to water coming from the evaporator or compressor oil. If your A/C leaks refrigerant, the most frequently observed indicator is cabin air not being cool enough. The system still functions once the refrigerant level becomes too low, but the air isn't cooled to the desired level. You may also smell something unusual or hear a whistling or whirring noise when the air conditioner operates if there's a problem with the evaporator, such as a clog, or water can backflow. You'll likely notice wet carpet under the dash or puddling on the floor. Finally, it's possible to see oily residue on the ground or on other components if the compressor develops a leak.

The Importance of Reputable Repair

If you suspect an air conditioner leak in your transportation, getting professional assistance is important. We go beyond what can be seen and heard using specialized equipment and techniques like pressure tests and UV dye to find leaks in your system. Addressing problems as soon as possible is important. Your ability to stay cool may be compromised until your A/C is fixed. Also, wet areas in the passenger cabin can lead to structural damage, deterioration, and growth of mold and mildew that can spread throughout the interior and impact the quality of the air you breathe. Chemical refrigerant leaks may also be bad for the environment. A leak won't repair itself, and it may unduly stress system components, leading to the need for more expensive repairs. At the first sign of trouble, schedule an appointment for auto A/C repair with Mad Hatter Auto Repair.