The AC compressor is running but not cooling. To stay comfortable and safe from the scorching summer heat, people often prefer air conditioning in the car. It’s heavenly to have that cool air blowing right on your face. However, sometimes your luck runs out and you encounter that AC compressor that’s running but not cooling.
No matter how high you turn that dial, it just doesn’t seem to work. Well, there are many reasons why your air conditioner isn’t blowing cool air.
How does an AC compressor work in a car?
An air conditioning compressor is a crucial component of the car’s AC system. Its main function is to compress and circulate the refrigerant gas, which is responsible for cooling the air inside the vehicle.
The AC compressor is typically driven by the engine via a belt and pulley system. It is connected to the rest of the air conditioning system, including the condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve or orifice tube, through a series of refrigerant lines. The compressor receives low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant gas from the evaporator and compresses it into high-pressure, high-temperature gas.
An air conditioning compressor plays a vital role in maintaining the proper functioning of the AC system. If the compressor fails or malfunctions, it can lead to a loss of cooling capacity, reduced efficiency, or even a complete lack of cold air. Common problems with the AC compressor include mechanical failure, electrical issues, or refrigerant leaks.
And when the compressor is faulty, you need to diagnose and find the reason in order to have a quick method to fix the problem:
The AC compressor is running but not cooling: Possible Reasons
From refrigerant leaks to a bad compressor, even a small fault in the HVAC system can cause you trouble with your air conditioning. Let’s learn about different reasons and their solutions-
If the refrigerant is leaking
This often happens, and it’s the most common problem causing an air conditioner to blow warm air. When the refrigerant leaks, simply use the sealant available at most auto repair shops. If unsure, you can call a repairer and let them seal any leaks causing the AC compressor to run but not cool.
To detect potential leaks, AC leak detection kits are available online. You can also request the kit from your nearest auto repair shop.
Ensure all connections are intact.
Locate the front seal and O-rings and see if the switches are secure.
Make sure no hose is crimped on the fittings.
If the condenser is blocked
The condenser is one of the important components of an HVAC system as it converts the hot refrigerant into a cold substance after undergoing the compression process. As a result, you get cool air via the airflow that passes through the front of your car.
If the condenser is blocked in some way or due to dust and debris, the overall functionality is compromised and you won’t get cool air. You can check the condenser yourself as it’s easy to locate. In most cars, it’s situated at the front of the car.
When the condenser needs to be replaced
Sometimes, a simple cleaning won’t work because the condenser might need replacement. Due to road debris and such materials, a condenser can break, and if it’s an equipment failure, only replacement will set things right.
Determining if your condenser needs cleaning or replacing is easy with a simple visual inspection. If it’s not the condenser, you can also check the compressor and get the compressor replaced.
Wiring Problems
Well, if that’s the case, it’s going to be tough to fix by yourself. In this instance, you should call an auto repairer, as it’s not safe for a novice to handle such situations.
However, if you can visually locate a broken wire, you can fix it using electrical tape or let the professional handle it for further diagnosis.
Faulty Cooling Fans
Fans play a crucial role in maintaining proper air circulation. When the fans are faulty, airflow won’t occur and you won’t get cool air. Also perform a visual inspection for this and see if the cooling fan isn’t broken. If it is, you need to replace it.
If you see that the fan isn’t broken, wiring work might be needed. Call a professional for this and resolve the issue.
Tip: It’s wise to entrust your car to a professional from time to time and ensure everything is working well.
If the compressor itself is faulty
The compressor is the unit responsible for running your air conditioning. If it’s faulty, it means no refrigerant will circulate in the system, and that means there will be no cool air. Compressors often fail due to long periods of service without maintenance or replacement.
So, if you feel all other components seem fine, the last check you can perform is on the compressor. It’s a good idea to have some hands-on experience handling minor faults in your car. Frequently reading maintenance tips can help you.
Furthermore, sometimes not using the compressor or the AC system makes it passive, and you might need to get it checked. As a solution, it’s recommended to run the air conditioner at full blast once every three weeks in winter and during monsoons when you aren’t using the AC frequently.
Conclusion
There’s nothing to fear if your AC compressor is running but not cooling. Sometimes, a simple visual inspection is enough to determine which component is faulty. Moreover, you can call the auto repairer and let them handle the deeper issues.
It can be frustrating; especially in summer, and for that, you can get your air conditioning checked beforehand. This way, you’d be ready to face the summer with the best air conditioner running in your car.