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When asked how car air conditioning systems work, most people would respond, “I don’t care how they work, I just want them to work!” While that may be a common response, it does not answer the question. If you are someone who has always been curious about how car AC works, continue reading below for a deeper look into air-conditioner theory, system components and system operation.
The air-conditioning system in a car works by manipulating refrigerant between a liquid and a gaseous state. As the refrigerant changes states, it absorbs heat and humidity from the vehicle and allows the system to give off cool, dry air.
To change the refrigerant between a liquid and a gaseous state, the air-conditioning system works to control pressure and temperature.
In the past, automotive air condition systems used R-12 as the refrigerant. R-12 (aka Freon) is a very effective CFC-based (chlorofluorocarbon) refrigerant that is not flammable and not poisonous to humans. During the late 1980s, scientists discovered that widespread usage of R-12 was damaging the earth’s ozone layer.
Manufacturers transitioned to R-134a in the mid-1990s. R-134a is an HFC-based (hydrofluorocarbon) refrigerant that does not have the ozone destroying properties of R-12/Freon. The newest refrigerant is R-1234yf, which produces fewer greenhouse gases. Europe requires the use of R-1234yf, and it will likely be the new standard in the United States in the near future.
Automotive air-conditioning systems have a few key components. Listed below are the main parts and their roles:
Below is an AC system diagram that shows the main components used and how they’re connected:
Because automotive air-conditioning systems operate under pressure, they need to remain completely sealed from the surrounding environment. Anything that allows refrigerant to escape or contaminants to enter can cause a failure.
If a leak is present in any component, simply recharging the system with new refrigerant will be at best a temporary fix. Identify the leak, replace the faulty component, and then evacuate and recharge the system.
Not only will a system leak stop the AC system from cooling, it can damage the compressor. The compressor can overheat and damage itself by trying to run with too little refrigerant in the system. Compressors generally are not serviceable and are an expensive item to replace.
To operate correctly, the AC condenser needs a steady flow of air through its fins. Road debris and dirt may reduce airflow, causing system malfunction. The condenser is mounted directly behind the vehicle grill, leaving it somewhat exposed and at risk for partial blockage.
Almost every new car sold in the U.S. is equipped with an air conditioning system. What was once considered a luxury is now an expectation. Automotive AC technicians diagnose and repair AC systems on a regular basis at dealerships and independent shops. Technicians often hear customers complain about warm air, loud noises, and even water leaking inside the car!
Does an automotive technician career sound like the right fit for you? Students at Universal Technical Institute(UTI) learn about every system of a vehicle, including auto air conditioning.1 In less than a year, you could have the skills and knowledge to purse this career.7 To learn more, visit our program page and request information to get in touch with an Admissions Representative today.
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1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
7) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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