Why Is Your Car's A/C System Less Reliable Than Your Home Unit?
If you have an air conditioning system at home, then you know that it is fairly reliable and that you don't need to worry too much about maintenance. Certainly, it will need to be serviced every now and again, but it's typically far more robust than the equivalent system fitted to your car or truck. Why is this, and why do you need to schedule a visit to a technician to maintain normal operation?
Much-Needed Comfort
Air conditioning systems rely on a transfer of heat and convert a refrigerant from a gas into a liquid as part of the process. In either the domestic or automotive world, this involves a number of individual parts, all working together to complete an ongoing cycle.
System in Motion
The fundamental difference between the system that you have at home and the one hidden under your bonnet is motion. Your vehicle's A/C system has to put up with the inconsistencies associated with movement, and this is why it will typically develop more faults as time goes by.
Vibration
All of the major components have to deal with mechanical vibration, and this is bound to have its effect eventually. Some components like the condenser also have to deal with stones, grit or dirt thrown up by other vehicles or blown onto its surface during movement.
Leaks
Various parts of the system are connected by rubber pipes. These are able to cope much more effectively with vibration and movement than a solid pipe, but they will also degrade with time. Leaks may develop through pinholes or where the pipes join other components, and this can lead to a loss of refrigerant and further degradation.
Low Levels
If the refrigerant does leak to a considerable extent, this will not only affect the ability of the system to cool down the occupants, but it can lead to excess wear and tear as well. After all, the refrigerant does contain special lubricating qualities that help to look after the internal components of the compressor and other parts. If levels are low, more damage can be expected.
Service Visit
From time to time, therefore, you will need to take the vehicle into a mechanic so that they can service the entire A/C. They will clean or change the filter, refresh the receiver and pressure check the system too. When needed, they will replace the old refrigerant with a more modern solution.
If you need a car air conditioning service, contact an auto shop near you.
