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Why your AC might stop working during heat waves

Why Your AC Might Give Up During a Heatwave (And What to Do About It)

The summer sun is blazing, the humidity is suffocating, and all you want is the cool, refreshing blast of your car’s AC. But then… nothing. A weak puff of lukewarm air greets you instead. Sound familiar? During heat waves, AC systems are put to the ultimate test, and sometimes, they fail. But why does this happen? At NewHub, we’re here to break down the common culprits and offer some helpful advice to keep you cool on the road.

The Overworked Compressor: The Heart of the Problem

Your car’s air conditioning system revolves around the compressor. It’s the unsung hero, responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant, which is the key to cooling the air. During a heatwave, your compressor is working overtime. The hotter it is outside, the harder it has to work to maintain a cool temperature inside your vehicle. This increased strain can lead to several issues:

  • Overheating: Just like any engine component, the compressor can overheat. Continuous high-pressure operation can cause it to shut down temporarily to protect itself. This might manifest as intermittent cooling.
  • Wear and Tear: Constant high demand accelerates wear and tear on the compressor’s internal parts, such as pistons, valves, and seals. Over time, this can lead to reduced efficiency or complete failure.
  • Refrigerant Leaks: The increased pressure in the system during a heatwave can exacerbate existing refrigerant leaks. Even a small leak can significantly reduce the AC’s cooling capacity.

Low Refrigerant: Not Enough Cooling Power

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. Without enough refrigerant, your AC simply can’t cool the air effectively. As mentioned earlier, heat waves can worsen existing leaks. Here’s why low refrigerant is a problem, especially in extreme heat:

  • Inefficient Cooling: With less refrigerant to absorb heat from the air, the AC struggles to lower the temperature, leaving you with lukewarm air.
  • Compressor Damage: A low refrigerant level can also damage the compressor. The refrigerant carries lubricant that helps keep the compressor running smoothly. Without enough refrigerant, the compressor can overheat and seize.
  • Freezing Up: In some cases, low refrigerant can cause the evaporator core (the part that cools the air) to freeze up, blocking airflow entirely.

Clogged Condenser: Blocking the Heat Exchange

The condenser is like the radiator for your AC system. It’s responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerant. Located at the front of your car, the condenser is vulnerable to debris like leaves, bugs, and road grime. A clogged condenser restricts airflow, preventing the refrigerant from cooling down properly. This leads to:

  • Reduced Cooling Efficiency: If the refrigerant can’t effectively dissipate heat, the AC system can’t cool the air as well.
  • Increased Pressure: A clogged condenser increases pressure in the system, putting extra strain on the compressor.
  • Overheating: Restricted airflow can cause the condenser to overheat, further reducing its efficiency.

Electrical Issues: A Weak Link in the Chain

Your AC system relies on several electrical components, including the compressor clutch, the blower motor, and various sensors. Any electrical fault can disrupt the system’s operation:

  • Blown Fuses: Overloaded circuits can cause fuses to blow, disabling components like the compressor clutch.
  • Faulty Wiring: Damaged or corroded wiring can interrupt the flow of electricity, preventing components from working properly.
  • Sensor Malfunctions: Sensors monitor temperature and pressure, relaying information to the AC control system. A faulty sensor can send incorrect data, causing the system to malfunction.

What Can You Do? Preventing AC Problems During Heatwaves

While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to minimize the risk of AC failure during a heatwave:

  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular AC service at NewHub. Our technicians can check refrigerant levels, inspect components for wear and tear, and identify potential problems before they escalate.
  • Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the condenser for debris. Gently remove any leaves, bugs, or other obstructions.
  • Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from your AC system, such as squealing, grinding, or hissing. These could indicate a problem.
  • Avoid Max AC: While tempting, running your AC on the highest setting constantly during extreme heat can put unnecessary strain on the system. Try adjusting the temperature gradually.

Conclusion: Stay Cool with NewHub

A malfunctioning AC during a heatwave is more than just an inconvenience; it can be a safety hazard. By understanding the common causes of AC failure and taking proactive measures, you can keep your car’s AC running smoothly all summer long. If you’re experiencing AC problems, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact NewHub today for expert AC service and repair. We’ll get you back on the road, cool and comfortable, in no time!