How Does the Car A/C Work?

If you live in a warm climate or have experienced hot weather during the summer in NC, you know how vital it is to have an effective air conditioning system in your vehicle. The A/C system in your car works similarly to the one in your home. It uses a refrigerant to cool the air that circulates in your car's cabin.

Here is a basic overview of how your vehicle's A/C system works:

• Compressor: The compressor is the heart of the A/C system. It compresses the refrigerant gas and sends it to the condenser.
• Condenser: The condenser is located in front of the radiator, and it converts the refrigerant gas into a liquid.
• Receiver/Dryer: The receiver/dryer removes moisture from the refrigerant and filters out any debris that may be in the system.
• Expansion Valve: The expansion valve regulates refrigerant flow into the evaporator.
• Evaporator: The evaporator is located inside the dashboard, and it cools the air entering your car's cabin.
• Blower Fan: The blower fan circulates the cool air into the cabin of your car.

Now that you know how your vehicle's A/C system works, it's essential to understand why regular maintenance is crucial. The refrigerant in your A/C system can leak out over time, reducing its effectiveness and cooling factor. Additionally, debris can accumulate in the nooks and crannies of the components, which can cause blockages and reduce airflow. Dirty or clogged filters can also reduce the efficiency of the air conditioning system.

To ensure your A/C system works efficiently, you must have it inspected and serviced regularly. At our auto repair shop, we can check the refrigerant levels, inspect the system for leaks, and clean or replace the filters.
If you notice your A/C system isn't working as well as it used to, such as not blowing cold air or making strange noises, it's important to immediately bring your vehicle in for service. We welcome you to Woodie's Auto Service and Repair Centers for quality A/C service! Our team can prepare your vehicle for those hot summer days ahead.