Maintaining your vehicle’s AC is essential for both comfort and safety!
Many people know only that the air conditioning system in their vehicle keeps them comfortable on hot days. What they do not know is that it serves a safety purpose as well, namely that it dries the air when they turn on the defrost. This second feature is more important than the first in that it is a primary reason why the defrost function clears up foggy windows. So, a properly functioning AC system is important year-round, not just in the summer. Harmony Automotive boasts certified technicians with ASE and MACS (Mobile Air Conditioning Society) certifications to service and repair your AC system, ensuring your comfort and safety all year long.
A proper AC service should include:
- Checking the interior HVAC vents for the correct output temperature (a well-functioning AC system should maintain a temperature 40 to 50 degrees cooler than the ambient air temperature)
- Inspecting the entire HVAC system for leaks and damage
- Performing pressure tests to assess operation and cooling efficiency – verifying that the AC compressor is functioning properly
- Conducting leak tests if refrigerant level is low
- Verifying for cross-contamination in case incompatible refrigerants have been mixed
- Examining the condition of system drive belts and tensioners (if applicable)
A prevalent problem with car AC systems is insufficient refrigerant level, often caused by leaks. Even well-maintained systems can develop leaks over time. Our simple yet effective AC system check can pinpoint such issues accurately.
AC system changes and improvements
The landscape of automotive air conditioning and its maintenance has evolved significantly since 1994 when the use of R-12 refrigerant (Freon) was banned by the government. In the past, topping off R-12 refrigerant was a common practice, easily done at local garages or even by vehicle owners themselves, temporarily restoring cooling. However, R-12 is a chlorofluorocarbon, harmful to the ozone layer, leading to its prohibition. Older vehicles can be retrofitted with conversion kits to use the more environmentally friendly R-134 refrigerant, which became standard in vehicles post-1994. Further advancements have led to the development of R-1234yf refrigerant, even more environmentally friendly but requiring specialized equipment for servicing, gradually becoming available in aftermarket service centers.
For any concerns regarding your vehicle’s AC system, don’t hesitate to consult the experts at Harmony Automotive!
