It’s a slow Tuesday afternoon. You’re stuck in traffic, and after a while, you reach to turn on your AC. After a few minutes, you wrinkle your face as you realise the AC is blowing hot instead of cold air into the car.
Fret not, as we also know how frustrating this can be. This article covers the causes and offers fixes so you can continue enjoying the chill of your vehicle.
Common Reasons Why Your Car’s AC Blows Hot Air
1. Electrical Problems: Your car’s electrical system is a net of wires that can be difficult to pick apart for the untrained eye. If a single one is frayed, burnt or damaged, it can signal a snowball effect that could cause your car AC to blow hot air. Your car is designed to shut off certain functions to avoid accidents or fires due to faulty wiring. Something simple like a blown fuse can cause your AC to shut off, so a professional must run a full diagnostic test on your car.
2. Inadequate Refrigerant/Freon: Insufficient refrigerant, often known as Freon, is a common cause of car air conditioning problems. This liquid circulates through your system to provide cool air and can leak over time.
Detecting a refrigerant leak can be challenging since it’s invisible to the naked eye. Signs of a leak might include a strange odour, reduced airflow from the vents, or oily residue around the AC pipes and hoses. If you suspect a leak or simply need a refrigerant refill, scheduling a visit with a qualified automotive technician is recommended. They’ll diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs to restore your car’s cooling system to optimal performance.
3. Broken Condenser: Your car’s air conditioner uses a condenser to function correctly. Think of it as the radiator for your AC system. If this component becomes clogged with dirt or debris, it can prevent the refrigerant from cooling down effectively. This leads to warm air blowing out of your vents, especially during hot weather.
Essentially, the condenser changes the gaseous refrigerant back into a liquid, which is then used to cool the air in your car. If the condenser isn’t working, you’ll likely be uncomfortable on those sweltering summer days.
4. Damaged Cooling Fans: Fans are crucial for your car’s AC system. They work with the compressor to circulate cool air throughout your vehicle. However, they can be delicate. Regularly inspect your cooling fans for damage, such as cracks, chips, or debris. Ensure they’re spinning at the correct speed and there are no obstructions, like leaves or insects, between the blades. A malfunctioning cooling fan can lead to reduced AC performance or complete failure, resulting in a warm interior.
How To Fix Malfunctioning AC
A malfunctioning AC can quickly turn your car into an uncomfortable ride. If you notice any issues we’ve discussed, like hot air blowing or unpleasant smells, it’s probably time for a check-up.
Rather than guessing what’s wrong, having a professional mechanic look and figure out what’s causing the problem is best.
That way, you can return to enjoying a cool and comfortable drive in no time!
You can avoid this malfunction with scheduled car maintenance. Book a service with us today and get your car returned to its A-game!
