How does air conditioning work?
Thursday 21st April 2022
Air conditioning systems are a common feature in many, if not all, modern cars on the market. However, you may not know about the importance of regularly maintaining your cars air conditioner as you would for any other car part. In our helpful guide, we will be telling you how your air conditioner works, as well as the best ways to keep it in top condition. telling you how your air conditioner works as well as the best ways to keep it in top condition.
How does car air conditioning work?
Your car air-conditioning system is made up of six parts:
- Evaporation coils
- Thermal expansion valve
- Receiver
- Condenser
- Compressor
- Refrigerant (gas)
When your air conditioner is switched on, the gas from the refrigerant travels to the condenser – this way, fresh air from the environment passes over the condenser. This causes the temperature of the gas to cool and become a liquid.
The liquid then passes through the receiver, which cleanses the impurities before reaching the thermal expansion valve. The valve allows you to adjust the temperature through altering the flow of the liquid – this is then turned to vapour whilst it passes through the evaporation coils. From this vapour, cool air gets blown into the cabin of your car.
How do I maintain my car conditioner system?
To keep your air con running as efficiently as possible, you will need to re-gas it every two years. This is essential as air conditioners are breeding grounds for bacteria. Without regular air conditioning maintenance, this could lead to bad odours in your car and negatively affect allergies.
Here at Formula One Autocentres, we offer air conditioning services at very competitive prices. All you have to do is contact our helpful team for more information, or pop into a centre near you.
