Vauxhall Astra Air Conditioning Problems? The 13 New Answer

How to diagnose your car’s air conditioning with A/C Pro

If your car’s air conditioner is blowing hot air, you probably have a few questions. What is wrong with that? How much will it cost? Can I fix it myself?

In some cases, you may need a professional mechanic to diagnose what’s wrong with your car’s air conditioning, a service they (rightly) charge money for. Likewise, there are some air conditioning repairs that the average person should leave to the professionals.

In many cases, however, you – even you – can find out what’s wrong with your car’s air conditioning system and fix the problem yourself, and all for less than it would cost to diagnose at most auto repair shops alone. You don’t even need fancy tools; all you need is a can of A/C Pro, which is available at most auto parts stores and major retailers.

We’re not saying it will diagnose every problem, but it will at least narrow down the options. It lets you know if you need to take it to a mechanic or you can just fix it yourself.

Here’s how.

What you will need:

Gloves, goggles and an A/C Pro gauge. The gauge is part of the standard all-in-one A/C Pro solution, but you can also buy it separately (and add a separate can of A/C Pro later if needed).

If you get the all-in-one kit and don’t end up needing to use the A/C Pro, it’s worth noting that some stores allow you to return unopened products for a full refund (make sure to keep your receipt!). You can use the meter yourself to diagnose the system without opening the can. So if you find that A/C Pro isn’t the solution, returning it might be an option. (You’ll need to check the store’s return policy to be sure.)

Step 1: Start the engine and turn the air conditioning to maximum.

Make sure the fan is on the highest setting and the temperature is on the coldest setting.

Step 2: Check if the air conditioning compressor is running.

Open the hood and locate the compressor. If you don’t know what an air conditioning compressor looks like, check out our guide to belt driven accessories. The A/C compressor is the only belt driven part with a clutch and the center part of the pulley only rotates when the clutch is engaged. So if you see a pulley that doesn’t turn even though the belt is moving around it, that’s the compressor.

With the air conditioning on, it is normal for the compressor clutch to cycle off and on periodically. To see how it should work watch this 20 second video.

If the compressor doesn’t turn on at all when the air conditioner is set to maximum, there could be something wrong with the compressor. But you won’t know for sure until you check the print. Regardless of whether the compressor is running or not, checking the pressure is the next step.

Step 3: Check the pressure with the A/C Pro pressure gauge.

To do this you will have to find the service connection for the low pressure air conditioning system, which we will explain here. You can also use our port locator tool. Because the hose attached to the A/C Pro gauge only snaps onto the low-pressure port, you’ll know with certainty when you’ve got it right.

Turn the dial on the gauge to the approximate outside temperature and read the pressure.

If the compressor is not running:

The pressure gauge measures the pressure when the compressor is running. When it’s not running, the pressure is higher than if the compressor were on. In other words, if the gauge reads in the “normal” range when the compressor is off, then the refrigerant is actually low.

Compressors are designed to shut themselves down if the refrigerant level gets too low. So if the gauge reads in the ‘low’ or even ‘normal’ range, the compressor may be working as intended and simply needing more refrigerant before it will turn on. You can test this by adding a few ounces of A/C Pro as explained in the can’s instructions. Then, when the compressor starts running, you know the problem was low refrigerant and you can stop adding A/C Pro until your AC is cold again.

If the compressor doesn’t turn on after adding some refrigerant, or if the gauge reads in the ‘high’ range, you know something is indeed wrong with the compressor itself. To fix the problem you will probably need to take it to a professional.

When the compressor is running:

As long as the compressor is on (even if it’s only on for a few seconds at a time), you can use the pressure gauge to measure the pressure. Just make sure you read the pressure during the times the compressor is running.

If the pressure is low all you have to do is add A/C Pro until the needle on the pressure gauge is in the recommended range and make sure you check the temperature of your inner center vent regularly. Lack of refrigerant is the most common air conditioning problem, which is why A/C Pro is usually a quick, easy and inexpensive fix. It tops up the refrigerant, adds the right amount of lubricant and seals the small rubber leaks that usually lead to a low refrigerant level.

All you have to do is add A/C Pro until the needle is on the gauge. Lack of refrigerant is the most common air conditioning problem, which is why A/C Pro is usually a quick, easy and inexpensive fix. It tops up the refrigerant, adds the right amount of lubricant and seals the small rubber leaks that usually lead to a low refrigerant level. If the pressure is high with the compressor running, DO NOT add refrigerant. In this case the problem may be that you already have too much refrigerant. It could also mean something is wrong with the compressor or expansion valve. Either way, you’ll probably want to see a mechanic.

do NOT add refrigerant. In this case the problem may be that you already have too much refrigerant. It could also mean something is wrong with the compressor or expansion valve. Either way, you’ll probably want to see a mechanic. If the pressure is in the right range, but the air conditioner is still blowing hot air, then something is unusual with the system and you need a professional diagnosis.

One final note: A/C Pro fixes leaks, but only small leaks. If it took at least two weeks for your air conditioner to go from cold to hot, then you have a small leak. If your air conditioner was cold yesterday and is blowing hot air today, then you either have a major leak or some other problem with the system. That would be one of those situations where you shouldn’t use A/C Pro.

Questions? Feel free to ask the pro. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for more car tips and tricks.

We are nearing the end of summer and our air conditioners have been working at full blast for several months. Inevitably, things can go wrong in those final few weeks before you decide to shut it down for the fall season. Below are three of the most common problems that you may encounter with your central air conditioner. Should you encounter any of these problems, you can save money and time by trying one of these DIY AC troubleshooting and repair techniques:

AC Troubleshooting: Why It Won’t Turn On

Possible causes: If you cannot activate the air conditioner at all, you most likely have a blown circuit breaker or fuse, an improperly set or defective thermostat, or an internal switch that has turned off.

Possible solutions:

Make sure it is getting power from the switchboard.

Reset the circuit breaker or replace your fuse.

Check your thermostat’s settings to make sure it’s set to ‘cool’ and not ‘off’ or ‘heat’.

Check your condensate pan for excess water. There may be a sensor on your tray that turns off the device when water is collected.

Make sure all switches in and around the air conditioner are in the “On” position, including the external safety switch, which is usually located near the condensing unit.

Make sure the blower door on the air handling unit is securely closed.

The problem: Your air conditioner turns on but doesn’t cool

Possible Causes: If you can hear your central air conditioner running but not cooling well, it could be due to an airflow blockage somewhere in your system – filters, coils or compressors. A low refrigerant level could also be the cause. Without the right amount of refrigerant, heat and moisture cannot be efficiently removed from the air.

Possible solutions:

Check the thermostat to make sure it is working properly.

Look at the condenser to see if it is dirty or clogged. If so, clean it and unclog it. The condenser can become blocked by tall weeds, grass or other airborne debris.

Clean and/or change your filter (We recommend quarterly.)

Check for ice build-up on the coils. If so, turn on the fan to melt it.

Check and/or clean the outdoor compressor. You could have a faulty compressor or an insufficient amount of refrigerant in the system, which would require a professional to repair.

The Problem: Poor airflow circulating through your home

Possible Causes: Commonly, poor airflow results from a dirty air filter or a clogged, crimped, or even disconnected duct system.

Possible solutions:

Make sure the air filter is clean. Clean or replace the air filter when dirty.

Check all ducts to make sure they haven’t come loose, including ducts that are difficult to access in your attic, basement or crawl space. Repair or connect as necessary.

Check the register dampers on the vents in the rooms to make sure they are set to an open position.

Cleaning your air conditioner is something you can do yourself, provided you have a basic understanding of the parts of your unit. However, there comes a time when you need to seek professional services. If you have already performed basic AC troubleshooting and the problem persists, you should call us for help.

Above all, proper maintenance is the best to avoid problems and prevent problems in the future. Call us at (317) 458-9255 if you have any questions. We’re here to help with AC troubleshooting!

Understanding the anatomy of your air conditioner may not be high on your list of priorities, but maintaining your system should be. After all, air conditioners don’t come cheap, and skipping maintenance could mean the difference between a system that requires frequent, costly repairs and one that runs smoothly for years.

One of the most important components of an air conditioner is the condenser coils. The condenser coils are located in the outdoor component of your air conditioner and work with the evaporator coil to remove heat from your home. But like any home investment, condenser coils need regular cleaning to function efficiently. Why? Simply put, clean capacitor coils increase the life of your system and can help reduce energy consumption. Even better, whether you’re an AC pro or a beginner, cleaning condenser coils is something you can do quickly and efficiently in just five easy steps.

Step 1. Check the coils

Start by visually inspecting the coils for any obvious damage. If you find significant damage, we recommend that you contact your local air conditioning contractor for help.

Step 2. Remove dirt with a coil brush

After inspecting the coils, use a coil brush to remove any large debris. This includes things like tall grass and excessive leaves that can affect the functionality of your air conditioner.

Step 3. Smooth out the coil ribs with a rib comb

Over time (hail, garden furniture, toys and the like) the cooling fins in the condenser can bend. If you notice your coil fins are bent, use an adjustable fin comb to straighten them. The small, malleable tines make it a perfect, inexpensive tool for straightening slats and removing hard-to-reach debris from between tight crevices.

Step 4. Wet the coils and coat them with coil cleaner

Take your hose and gently wet the coils to further remove excess dirt. Next, spray a liberal amount of foaming coil cleaner onto the coils in a back and forth motion. The coil cleaner will foam and begin to collect dust and dirt. Leave on for five to ten minutes. Coil cleaner is inexpensive and can be purchased online or at your local hardware store.

Step 5. Rinse the coil cleaner with water

After allowing the coil cleaner to sit for five to 10 minutes, gently rinse the cleaner off with water. Be sure to flap the fins straight ahead in a slow, back-and-forth motion to avoid bending the fins.

Learn more DIY projects and AC hacks at Sansone

Maintaining your air conditioner doesn’t have to be a daunting task, which is why we’ve made it our mission to demystify the system that keeps you cool. For more DIY maintenance projects and AC hacks like these, be sure to visit our blog – and if you’d rather leave tasks like air conditioner maintenance to the professionals, turn to Sansone for all your AC needs.

Broward: (954) 800-2858

Palm Beach: (561) 701-8274

St. Lucie: (772) 879-5656

Through an hour heating & air conditioning

If you’ve ever asked an IT pro why your computer isn’t working, they may have responded with a question: “Have you tried restarting it?”

Like many devices in your home, air conditioners are getting smarter and sometimes require a good old-fashioned reset. Older models that suddenly stop working can also benefit from a reset, especially after a power outage.

Why do I need to reset my air conditioner?

The most common reason an AC device needs to be reset is if the circuit breaker in your AC device has tripped. This usually happens after a power outage and is in place to prevent fires and explosions.

A reset can also correct an air conditioner that only blows warm air, even when the thermostat is set to cool. There are a handful of reasons your air conditioner might blow warm air, but one of them is a common thermostat failure. Sometimes a hard reset of your AC can solve this problem.

While resetting an air conditioner is a simple task, if you are unsure or unwell, please consult an HVAC professional who can assist you by requesting an appointment at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning. As a last precaution, you may need to open your condensing unit diagram to access the return button and on certain units this may affect your warranty. Please check your warranty policy before attempting to reset your air conditioner. Once you are familiar and comfortable with your AC unit, follow the simple instructions below.

How to reset an air conditioner

Turn off your air conditioner. Start at your circuit breaker panel and flip the circuit breaker that powers your air conditioner. Also, turn the power switch that your AC device is connected to to the off position. Find the button. Most air conditioners are equipped with a reset button. These buttons are usually red and quite small. If you have trouble finding it, consult your user manual. (If you can’t find it, most are posted online for quick reference). Press and hold the reset button for 3 to 5 seconds and then release. Restore power to your air conditioner. Turn all breakers, including the breaker in your circuit breaker panel, to the on position.

You have successfully completed a reset! Next, go to your thermostat and make sure it’s set to cool and a temperature that’s lower than the current temperature in your home. After a few seconds, your air conditioner should start.

Put your hand on the vents to confirm cold air is flowing through your ducts.

How to reset a window air conditioner

Since most window air conditioners don’t have a reset button, you’ll need to unplug them for a few minutes to discharge the charge.

After plugging it back in and turning the circuit back on, the window air conditioner should reset and be operational again.

AC reset button not working? Call an hour

If resetting doesn’t seem to work, it’s time to contact the HVAC experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.

It can be tempting to turn on the AC and crank it to “max cool” as soon as you get in the car. But did you know? Blasting the AC straight out the gate isn’t the best way to make it cool! When your AC is set to “Max” the car is actually sucking air from inside the car, cooling it and blowing it back into the cabin.

The problem with this is that when you first get into the car, the air inside is hotter than the air outside. (Remember how the temperature in your car can get close to 200°F?!) You’re forcing your air conditioner to work harder, and for no reason. Start by sucking in air from outside the vehicle to make things feel faster and cooler. Leave the A/C button off for now. Turn the fan to its maximum speed and make sure the airflow is set to “outside” mode.

Once you’ve squeezed out some of the moist, hot air that’s been building up in the car, turn on the air conditioner and switch to “Recirculation” airflow mode. Now you can set the air conditioner to “max cool”.

The cost of a DIY charging kit is so low that it’s worth charging yourself as a first diagnostic step. Air conditioners can slowly leak refrigerant over time. It’s possible that if everything is fine with your system, a quick charge will cause it to start blowing cold air again. However, if it doesn’t fix the problem, have it checked by a workshop qualified to work on air conditioning systems.

What is your air conditioner charging?

Your air conditioner uses a special refrigerant called R134a to remove moisture from the air inside your car and release it to the outside. Over time, this refrigerant can escape, either through normal evaporation or through leaks that form in your system. Without refrigerant, the air conditioning system can no longer cool the interior of your car.

Charging the air conditioner is simply adding more refrigerant to the system to get it working properly again.

What happens if you don’t charge the air conditioner?

Your car’s air conditioning system is designed to shut off automatically if there is insufficient refrigerant or pressure in the lines. This will prevent further damage from occurring. It’s perfectly safe to continue driving without air conditioning, but doing so for an extended period of time can result in the compressor seizing from non-use, adding to the cost and complexity of subsequent repairs. And of course you can’t cool down while driving.

Often a simple DIY recharge kit will get your air conditioner running again, especially if it has just failed. The cost of charging your car air conditioner this way is $20-$50 at any auto parts store and it is definitely a first step to repairing your air conditioner even if you are a beginner.

(RELATED: How to Charge Your Car’s Air Conditioner)

If air conditioning charging doesn’t work, by all means find a professional mechanic who is equipped and qualified to work on air conditioning systems. This repair requires special equipment to collect remaining refrigerant so it does not cause environmental problems. A professional can also use a special dye to find the leaking and/or broken components and replace them accordingly.

The equipment alone makes this job far beyond the reach of the average handyman. Unless you have a particularly old car that isn’t worth a lot of money, paying a professional to fix your air conditioner is definitely worth it.

How often do you need to charge your car air conditioner?

Charging the air conditioner in a car is not a regular maintenance item in your car’s manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule. In theory, the system is sealed and you should never have to do this.

In practice, however, rubber seals dry out and wear out, and the refrigerant slowly evaporates over time, leaving too little in the system for the air conditioner to work effectively. Other components can fail as well, but attempting a recharge is the first thing to try, especially since it’s a cheap and easy DIY solution and often all is enough to get it working again.

Common symptoms you need to charge your car air conditioner

Cold air no longer comes out of the ventilation slots of your air conditioning system

Misting doesn’t clear your windshield when you turn your air conditioner to defrost

Request your customized maintenance plan

Get the FIXD sensor and free app today for a customized maintenance schedule based on your make, model and mileage. Never miss an important maintenance again with automatic maintenance alerts! Learn more at fixd.com.

You finally survived the winter! Summer is just around the corner and it is the best season for driving. Even your daily commute is a little better when it’s warm and sunny.

But nothing can spoil summer fun quite like a broken car air conditioner. The air conditioning is one of the most complex systems in your vehicle. If it blows warm air, it can have several causes. We explain some of the most common.

1. Refrigerant leak

A car air conditioner blowing hot air is often the result of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a liquid that circulates through your car’s air conditioning system, expanding and contracting as it removes heat and moisture from the interior. None of the other A/C components will function properly without correct refrigerant levels.

A leak can occur due to an old hose, as well as a rusted or punctured evaporator. But don’t expect to spot a refrigerant leak easily. You probably won’t notice a pool of liquid in or under your car. Unlike motor oil and other vital automotive fluids, antifreeze evaporates when exposed to the atmosphere. Sometimes you get lucky and notice an oily residue at the exact spot of the leak.

In order to definitively identify a refrigerant leak, one of our experienced technicians must inject dye into the system to trace it. Once they identify the source of the leak, they repair and recharge your car air conditioner so it can blow fresh, cold air again.

2. Defective capacitor

As your air conditioner pulls the heat and moisture out of your cabin, the refrigerant absorbs it. The function of the condenser, in turn, is to keep the refrigerant cool so the cycle can continue. If the capacitor doesn’t do its job, the process breaks down. That’s when you get hit in the face by a blast of hot air.

The condenser is located at the front of the vehicle between the grille and the radiator. It uses air flowing through the grate to aid in cooling. If the condenser is blocked or clogged with road debris, air will not reach it, resulting in improper cooling of the refrigerant.

If you have a bad capacitor, you may be able to identify the problem by looking through the grid. Also consider if your car’s air conditioning problems started after a fender flex or bumper impact. If so, your capacitor could have ruptured on impact.

3. Defective compressor

The compressor is the heart of your car’s air conditioning system. It is responsible for the circulation of the refrigerant through the system. If this part is not working properly, the antifreeze cannot reach the condenser for cooling.

Compressor problems usually appear after long periods of inactivity, e.g. B. in long winters when air conditioning is not required. However, to prevent this, many newer vehicles keep the condenser active year-round by activating it under the defrost setting.

4. Electrical system problems

If all of the air conditioning components are working, your car may be blowing hot air due to an electrical problem. A frayed wire or blown fuse can prevent an otherwise healthy air conditioner from working. Diagnosing and fixing an electrical problem starts with a full visual inspection of your car’s fuse box and wiring.

If any of these problems are causing your car to blow hot air, head to your local Tires Plus. We subject your air conditioning system to a thorough and precise inspection. We explain what is needed now and what can wait, so the decision is yours. After all, with Tires Plus, you’re in the driver’s seat. Let’s make sure it’s cool.

How long does Auto AC petrol last? Everything you need to know

If your car’s air conditioning is no longer working, in most cases this can be quickly and easily fixed with an air conditioning regas. The truth is that most of us take air conditioning for granted and always expect it to work without a second thought, but given Australia’s hot and humid climate, when warm air comes out of the vents it can be very uncomfortable, quite too mention sweat.

Over time, you will find that your air conditioner is no longer performing as well as it did when it was new. That’s because it requires regular maintenance, which many of us don’t do. Luckily, keeping your air conditioner running is not an expensive or difficult task as long as you regularly maintain your car’s air conditioner.

What is backgassing?

Car air conditioning regasification involves removing the old refrigerant gas from your air conditioning system and replacing it with new refrigerant, preferably an eco-friendly refrigerant such as r1234yf, to allow your air conditioning system to get cold again.

If your air conditioner stops blowing cold air, that’s the first thing you should investigate. The back gas process should not take more than an hour to be performed by a professional.

There could be other reasons why your vehicle’s air conditioning is no longer blowing cold, and a reputable automotive air conditioning technician can advise you if the problem is related to a specific component of your air conditioning system

Not sure if your car air conditioner has a problem? Discover 3 signs your air conditioner needs repairing.

How long does the fuel in the car air conditioner last?

Non-automotive air conditioners can last indefinitely as long as you don’t cause a leak. The compressor and associated coils are hermetically sealed. The compressor works within this sealed system. So if nobody damages it anywhere, it won’t leak, but with vehicles that’s a different story.

Car air conditioners will encounter problems over time. The compressor is not hermetically sealed. The clutch seals can dry out, especially after a long period of inactivity, and become leaky as a result.

Your car air conditioner consists of several components like the compressor, condenser, evaporator as well as other intricate parts like hoses, valves, gaskets etc. all of which lie under the hood of your vehicle and are susceptible to damage.

If you are a frequent driver, at some point your car’s air conditioning system may not work as it should. If you own a brand new vehicle, your car A/C gas will last 2-5 years without encountering any major problems as long as you have annual car A/C service such as 24 point car/A/C diagnostics and performance

Would you like to know more about your vehicle’s air conditioning system? Discover how the car air conditioner works

How do you know when your air conditioner needs to be re-fumigated?

The first sign that your air conditioner needs re-gassing is when the air being blown out of the vents isn’t as cool as it used to be or doesn’t feel any different when the air conditioner is off.

If you can’t remember when the system was last re-gassed, it’s probably worth doing. Alternatively, many specialists are happy to carry out a free check.

Is a Regas part of a service?

While regular maintenance of your car is important to keep it in reliable and roadworthy condition, services rarely cover air conditioning and that includes the service performed by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Our advice is to go to a car air conditioning specialist like Jack Frost who will do a Regas service professionally and also offer a 6 month warranty.

Our diagnostic and recharge prices start at $99 and vary by season, cellular service and other unforeseen factors.

When your car’s air conditioning system is serviced, the technician should check the system’s lubricant level and replace the old refrigerant gas with new gas up to the required level.

You should also perform a vacuum test to look for any cracks or leaks that could prevent your air conditioner from working in the future.

How Often Should You Charge Your Air Conditioner?

Most vehicle manufacturers recommend servicing or re-fuming your car’s air conditioning system every 1-2 years. Whether you use your car’s air conditioning a lot or hardly, air conditioning gas will continue to permeate through the system over time, so having an air conditioning service every two years will keep the gas topped up and the system lubricated so you can keep it running always have a cool blast ready when you need it most.

Even in the top class, there will be around 10% gas loss in the air conditioning system every year, resulting in less cold air. Also remember that a malfunctioning unit will put more stress on your engine and therefore result in increased fuel consumption.

What happens if I don’t refuel my air conditioner?

If you don’t refuel the air conditioning, it will gradually become less efficient, making the car uncomfortable in hot weather and taking longer to defog the windows in winter.

Not re-gassing your air conditioner is also bad for it in the long run, as pipes are likely to rupture and parts to seize when not in use.

How long does it take to charge an air conditioner?

The car air conditioner charging process takes about 45-60 minutes to completely remove the old gas and refill with fresh refrigerant.

At Jack Frost you can have your AC charged while you wait and use our free WiFi in our customer waiting area at our workshop in Mt Gravatt East. With mobile service, we can conveniently carry out the service at work or at home.

Where can I get my air conditioner charged?

At Jack Frost Car Air Conditioning we offer a full air conditioning charging service through our Mt Gravatt East workshop as well as our mobile service in North and South Brisbane.

Our service includes:

Perform a comprehensive inspection of your car’s air conditioning system.

Pressurize the system with our highly traceable n95/h5 nitrogen/hydrogen leak detector gas

Comprehensive leak test of your evaporator core behind the dash (nobody else does this!), compressor, condenser and hoses

Inspect all visible components of the system to ensure their integrity, and also test and inspect the electrical circuitry and operation.

Note: If your car’s air conditioning suddenly stopped working, it means your system has a leak somewhere and re-fuming will not fix the problem.

All leaks must be repaired before we can legally regas your system.

When the summer heat is at its worst and you need your air conditioner the most, the likelihood of a system failure is greatest. This is due to the fact that AC systems rely on fuses to operate, which are more prone to blowing at particularly high temperatures.

Knowing how to tell if an air conditioner has a blown fuse is part of proper HVAC equipment ownership. By understanding why your air conditioning system isn’t working, you can better prepare for your refrigeration service needs and avoid costly repairs in the future.

What type of fuse does an air conditioner use?

Air conditioners use fuses to protect the condenser from excessive current. Fuses are rated for a limited current, based on the maximum current the device is rated for: if a higher current is passed through it, the fuse will blow to protect the capacitor from overheating.

Typically, AC systems use “TR” type fuses to ensure safe system operation. However, if you are in an emergency and need to replace a fuse quickly, you can use a fuse rated for a lower amperage than the system rating. Using a fuse rated for higher amperages can result in capacitor failure and irreparable damage to your device.

Why do fuses keep blowing in my AC system?

Aside from excessive heat, air conditioners can blow fuses for a variety of reasons, including the following:

Circuit Problem: There may be a major problem with your circuit, fuse box, or power supply. If your circuit breakers trip and fuses blow frequently, the current on the power line is too high for your systems to handle.

There may be a major problem with your electrical circuit, fuse box, or power supply. If your circuit breakers trip and fuses blow frequently, the current on the power line is too high for your systems to handle. Bad Capacitor: Your capacitor is the component in your capacitor that helps regulate electrical current. Failure to do this could result in your fuse blowing and your device failing.

Your capacitor is the component in your capacitor that helps regulate electrical current. Failure to do this could result in your fuse blowing and your device failing. Dirty Filters: If your device is working harder than it should due to a dirty filter, it can overheat and cause the fuse to blow. Always make sure your air filters are kept clean throughout the summer to avoid overheating the system.

If your device is working harder than it should due to a dirty filter, it can overheat and blow the fuse. Always make sure your air filters are kept clean throughout the summer to avoid overheating the system. Loose Electrical: You may have loose electrical components in your air conditioner. When temperatures are high and electrical components come loose, it can result in a blown fuse or system malfunction.

Other causes of blown fuses in your air conditioner include defective condenser fans, malfunctioning compressors, improper refrigerant levels, and age.

How do I check an air conditioner for a blown fuse?

If you think your air conditioner has blown a fuse, the first sign you will notice is that the external AC unit is not operational. The best way to check for a blown fuse is to use a voltmeter. Be warned – you are working live and should exercise extreme caution when troubleshooting your system. However, let’s dive into the steps you should follow to check for a blown fuse with the voltmeter:

Locate your circuit breaker: There is usually a gray box mounted on your house near the outdoor condenser unit. this is your break up

A gray box is usually mounted on your house near the outdoor condenser unit. this is your break up Opening the Circuit Breaker: Open the circuit breaker cover by either lifting it or pivoting it open.

Open the breaker cover by either lifting it or swinging it open. Expose the Wiring: After opening the circuit breaker, you should see another cover inside protecting the wiring. Pop these out to reveal the wiring underneath.

After opening the circuit breaker, you should see another cover inside protecting the wiring. Pop these out to reveal the wiring underneath. Locate the Wires: Once exposed, locate the incoming and outgoing wires by identifying the “line” (incoming) and “load” (outgoing) labels. Both lines carry 110 volts.

Once exposed, locate the incoming and outgoing wires by identifying the “Line” (incoming) and “Load” (outgoing) designations. Set your meter: Before proceeding, set your voltmeter to the voltage (V) setting and verify that the display reads “0” volts.

Before proceeding, set your voltmeter to the voltage (V) setting and verify that the display reads “0” volts. Place the leads: Take the wires (leads) of your voltmeter and attach them to the tabs (screws) of your disconnector by fitting the red lead to the tab of the black “lead wire” and the black lead to the tab of the white ” Lay line” cable.

Take the wires (leads) of your voltmeter and attach them to the lugs (screws) of your isolator by placing the red wire on the lug of the black ‘lead wire’ and the black wire on the lug of the white ‘lead wire’. Read the voltage: Your voltage reading should be somewhere in the 220-240 range. If you see this, it means that power is flowing in the circuit breaker to your fuses. If there is no reading, there may be a problem with the circuit breaker panel that your local electrician will need to troubleshoot.

Your voltage reading should be somewhere in the 220-240 range. If you see this, it means that power is flowing in the circuit breaker to your fuses. If there is no reading, there may be a problem with the circuit breaker panel that your local electrician will need to troubleshoot. Test the Load: If you saw a voltage reading during the previous step, perform the same test on the “Load” side of the fuses. You should see a value between 220 and 240 again. If you see a voltage reading on the “Mains” side but not on the “Load” side, it means you have a blown fuse.

What if I don’t have a voltmeter?

If you don’t have a voltmeter to test your air conditioner fuses, you can always replace the fuses by going to a local hardware store and picking up the size you need. As previously mentioned, this is typically a “TR” type fuse. Replacing your fuses is a fairly simple process. However, if you are not comfortable doing this, it is highly recommended that you contact an air conditioning repair specialist for the assistance you need. Follow these steps to replace the fuses in your AC unit:

Some fuses are fully exposed and in the same area as the wiring, while other circuit breakers contain their fuses in the handle itself. If your circuit breakers are housed in the “T” handle, you will need to pull that out first to find the fuses before proceeding to the next step.

Be sure to pull out the handle to shut off the current flow to the fuses while you are replacing them. It is important to note that this does not stop the flow of current to the circuit breaker or line side fuses, so it is best to turn off the circuit breaker to your AC unit for optimum safety.

Finally, remove the fuses by pushing them out with your hands if they are in the handle, or by grabbing them with pliers with insulated handles. Never use bare metal handles when working with electricity.

When should I contact Air Experts for air conditioning repair services?

If this all sounds way too complicated, don’t worry: Air Expert’s team of air conditioning repair technicians are here to help. Our team has over 35 years of industry experience providing durable AC repair solutions that Raleigh residents need to restore their systems. Seven days a week, 365 days a year, our air conditioning repair professionals are available to get to the bottom of your blown fuse problem in no time.

Call us at 919-480-2727 to schedule an emergency air conditioning repair in Raleigh, NC today!

The wonderful thing about living in Orlando, FL is that it’s warm all year round. That’s why we have so many snowbirds in winter. Also, since the weather is tropical, many people leave their vehicles air conditioning on all year round. Factory servicing of your car’s air conditioner will make you feel comfortable every time you turn it on. However, if you notice any of the following, take your car, truck, or commercial vehicle to Auto Solutions for an AC compressor test, as this part may go bad.

Strange noise

You may hear some strange noises when you turn on your vehicle’s air conditioning and if you do, it’s probably the compressor. Once this part begins to fail, it may crunch or whine when activated. These noises are the result of internal components such as B. the bearings that go bad. Turn your air conditioner off to see if the sound stops, then back on to see if it resumes. If so, you have an AC problem.

Hot air

The whole point of turning on your vehicle’s air conditioning is to allow cool air to flow through the vents. However, if your AC system hasn’t been serviced, you might find yourself with hot air instead. Hot air is a sign of AC compressor failure. Hot air could also be a sign that your refrigerant is running low. This sign usually warns you before the compressor dies completely. You’ll notice that the air seems to get warmer over time.

liquid leaks

As mentioned above, your vehicle’s air conditioning compressor has internal bearings that prevent the refrigerant from leaking out of the compressor. The compressor’s job is to pressurize the refrigerant to cool it down. This of course wears out the bearings over time due to the constant pressurized environment inside the compressor. Refrigerant leaks from worn or damaged bearings.

Stuck clutch

Just like a manual transmission, the air conditioning compressor has a clutch. This coupler connects to your vehicle’s engine to draw power from it. The compressor only uses the power when it needs it, but if the AC compressor clutch or its pulley gets stuck, the compressor will not work because it is not getting power. The clutch itself cannot be replaced. If it’s stuck, you’ll need to replace the compressor.

If you notice any of the four symptoms of an AC compressor failure, visit Auto Solutions in Orlando, FL today. Call us in advance to make an appointment.

The wonderful thing about living in Orlando, FL is that it’s warm all year round. That’s why we have so many snowbirds in winter. Also, since the weather is tropical, many people leave their vehicles air conditioning on all year round. Factory servicing of your car’s air conditioner will make you feel comfortable every time you turn it on. However, if you notice any of the following, take your car, truck, or commercial vehicle to Auto Solutions for an AC compressor test, as this part may go bad.

Strange noise

You may hear some strange noises when you turn on your vehicle’s air conditioning and if you do, it’s probably the compressor. Once this part begins to fail, it may crunch or whine when activated. These noises are the result of internal components such as B. the bearings that go bad. Turn your air conditioner off to see if the sound stops, then back on to see if it resumes. If so, you have an AC problem.

Hot air

The whole point of turning on your vehicle’s air conditioning is to allow cool air to flow through the vents. However, if your AC system hasn’t been serviced, you might find yourself with hot air instead. Hot air is a sign of AC compressor failure. Hot air could also be a sign that your refrigerant is running low. This sign usually warns you before the compressor dies completely. You’ll notice that the air seems to get warmer over time.

liquid leaks

As mentioned above, your vehicle’s air conditioning compressor has internal bearings that prevent the refrigerant from leaking out of the compressor. The compressor’s job is to pressurize the refrigerant to cool it down. This of course wears out the bearings over time due to the constant pressurized environment inside the compressor. Refrigerant leaks from worn or damaged bearings.

Stuck clutch

Just like a manual transmission, the air conditioning compressor has a clutch. This coupler connects to your vehicle’s engine to draw power from it. The compressor only uses the power when it needs it, but if the AC compressor clutch or its pulley gets stuck, the compressor will not work because it is not getting power. The clutch itself cannot be replaced. If it’s stuck, you’ll need to replace the compressor.

If you notice any of the four symptoms of an AC compressor failure, visit Auto Solutions in Orlando, FL today. Call us in advance to make an appointment.

When the summer heat is at its worst and you need your air conditioner the most, the likelihood of a system failure is greatest. This is due to the fact that AC systems rely on fuses to operate, which are more prone to blowing at particularly high temperatures.

Knowing how to tell if an air conditioner has a blown fuse is part of proper HVAC equipment ownership. By understanding why your air conditioning system isn’t working, you can better prepare for your refrigeration service needs and avoid costly repairs in the future.

What type of fuse does an air conditioner use?

Air conditioners use fuses to protect the condenser from excessive current. Fuses are rated for a limited current, based on the maximum current the device is rated for: if a higher current is passed through it, the fuse will blow to protect the capacitor from overheating.

Typically, AC systems use “TR” type fuses to ensure safe system operation. However, if you are in an emergency and need to replace a fuse quickly, you can use a fuse rated for a lower amperage than the system rating. Using a fuse rated for higher amperages can result in capacitor failure and irreparable damage to your device.

Why do fuses keep blowing in my AC system?

Aside from excessive heat, air conditioners can blow fuses for a variety of reasons, including the following:

Circuit Problem: There may be a major problem with your circuit, fuse box, or power supply. If your circuit breakers trip and fuses blow frequently, the current on the power line is too high for your systems to handle.

There may be a major problem with your electrical circuit, fuse box, or power supply. If your circuit breakers trip and fuses blow frequently, the current on the power line is too high for your systems to handle. Bad Capacitor: Your capacitor is the component in your capacitor that helps regulate electrical current. Failure to do this could result in your fuse blowing and your device failing.

Your capacitor is the component in your capacitor that helps regulate electrical current. Failure to do this could result in your fuse blowing and your device failing. Dirty Filters: If your device is working harder than it should due to a dirty filter, it can overheat and cause the fuse to blow. Always make sure your air filters are kept clean throughout the summer to avoid overheating the system.

If your device is working harder than it should due to a dirty filter, it can overheat and blow the fuse. Always make sure your air filters are kept clean throughout the summer to avoid overheating the system. Loose Electrical: You may have loose electrical components in your air conditioner. When temperatures are high and electrical components come loose, it can result in a blown fuse or system malfunction.

Other causes of blown fuses in your air conditioner include defective condenser fans, malfunctioning compressors, improper refrigerant levels, and age.

How do I check an air conditioner for a blown fuse?

If you think your air conditioner has blown a fuse, the first sign you will notice is that the external AC unit is not operational. The best way to check for a blown fuse is to use a voltmeter. Be warned – you are working live and should exercise extreme caution when troubleshooting your system. However, let’s dive into the steps you should follow to check for a blown fuse with the voltmeter:

Locate your circuit breaker: There is usually a gray box mounted on your house near the outdoor condenser unit. this is your break up

A gray box is usually mounted on your house near the outdoor condenser unit. this is your break up Opening the Circuit Breaker: Open the circuit breaker cover by either lifting it or pivoting it open.

Open the breaker cover by either lifting it or swinging it open. Expose the Wiring: After opening the circuit breaker, you should see another cover inside protecting the wiring. Pop these out to reveal the wiring underneath.

After opening the circuit breaker, you should see another cover inside protecting the wiring. Pop these out to reveal the wiring underneath. Locate the Wires: Once exposed, locate the incoming and outgoing wires by identifying the “line” (incoming) and “load” (outgoing) labels. Both lines carry 110 volts.

Once exposed, locate the incoming and outgoing wires by identifying the “Line” (incoming) and “Load” (outgoing) designations. Set your meter: Before proceeding, set your voltmeter to the voltage (V) setting and verify that the display reads “0” volts.

Before proceeding, set your voltmeter to the voltage (V) setting and verify that the display reads “0” volts. Place the leads: Take the wires (leads) of your voltmeter and attach them to the tabs (screws) of your disconnector by fitting the red lead to the tab of the black “lead wire” and the black lead to the tab of the white ” Lay line” cable.

Take the wires (leads) of your voltmeter and attach them to the lugs (screws) of your isolator by placing the red wire on the lug of the black ‘lead wire’ and the black wire on the lug of the white ‘lead wire’. Read the voltage: Your voltage reading should be somewhere in the 220-240 range. If you see this, it means that power is flowing in the circuit breaker to your fuses. If there is no reading, there may be a problem with the circuit breaker panel that your local electrician will need to troubleshoot.

Your voltage reading should be somewhere in the 220-240 range. If you see this, it means that power is flowing in the circuit breaker to your fuses. If there is no reading, there may be a problem with the circuit breaker panel that your local electrician will need to troubleshoot. Test the Load: If you saw a voltage reading during the previous step, perform the same test on the “Load” side of the fuses. You should see a value between 220 and 240 again. If you see a voltage reading on the “Mains” side but not on the “Load” side, it means you have a blown fuse.

What if I don’t have a voltmeter?

If you don’t have a voltmeter to test your air conditioner fuses, you can always replace the fuses by going to a local hardware store and picking up the size you need. As previously mentioned, this is typically a “TR” type fuse. Replacing your fuses is a fairly simple process. However, if you are not comfortable doing this, it is highly recommended that you contact an air conditioning repair specialist for the assistance you need. Follow these steps to replace the fuses in your AC unit:

Some fuses are fully exposed and in the same area as the wiring, while other circuit breakers contain their fuses in the handle itself. If your circuit breakers are housed in the “T” handle, you will need to pull that out first to find the fuses before proceeding to the next step.

Be sure to pull out the handle to shut off the current flow to the fuses while you are replacing them. It is important to note that this does not stop the flow of current to the circuit breaker or line side fuses, so it is best to turn off the circuit breaker to your AC unit for optimum safety.

Finally, remove the fuses by pushing them out with your hands if they are in the handle, or by grabbing them with pliers with insulated handles. Never use bare metal handles when working with electricity.

When should I contact Air Experts for air conditioning repair services?

If this all sounds way too complicated, don’t worry: Air Expert’s team of air conditioning repair technicians are here to help. Our team has over 35 years of industry experience providing durable AC repair solutions that Raleigh residents need to restore their systems. Seven days a week, 365 days a year, our air conditioning repair professionals are available to get to the bottom of your blown fuse problem in no time.

Call us at 919-480-2727 to schedule an emergency air conditioning repair in Raleigh, NC today!

How long does Auto AC petrol last? Everything you need to know

If your car’s air conditioning is no longer working, in most cases this can be quickly and easily fixed with an air conditioning regas. The truth is that most of us take air conditioning for granted and always expect it to work without a second thought, but given Australia’s hot and humid climate, when warm air comes out of the vents it can be very uncomfortable, quite too mention sweat.

Over time, you will find that your air conditioner is no longer performing as well as it did when it was new. That’s because it requires regular maintenance, which many of us don’t do. Luckily, keeping your air conditioner running is not an expensive or difficult task as long as you regularly maintain your car’s air conditioner.

What is backgassing?

Car air conditioning regasification involves removing the old refrigerant gas from your air conditioning system and replacing it with new refrigerant, preferably an eco-friendly refrigerant such as r1234yf, to allow your air conditioning system to get cold again.

If your air conditioner stops blowing cold air, that’s the first thing you should investigate. The back gas process should not take more than an hour to be performed by a professional.

There could be other reasons why your vehicle’s air conditioning is no longer blowing cold, and a reputable automotive air conditioning technician can advise you if the problem is related to a specific component of your air conditioning system

Not sure if your car air conditioner has a problem? Discover 3 signs your air conditioner needs repairing.

How long does the fuel in the car air conditioner last?

Non-automotive air conditioners can last indefinitely as long as you don’t cause a leak. The compressor and associated coils are hermetically sealed. The compressor works within this sealed system. So if nobody damages it anywhere, it won’t leak, but with vehicles that’s a different story.

Car air conditioners will encounter problems over time. The compressor is not hermetically sealed. The clutch seals can dry out, especially after a long period of inactivity, and become leaky as a result.

Your car air conditioner consists of several components like the compressor, condenser, evaporator as well as other intricate parts like hoses, valves, gaskets etc. all of which lie under the hood of your vehicle and are susceptible to damage.

If you are a frequent driver, at some point your car’s air conditioning system may not work as it should. If you own a brand new vehicle, your car A/C gas will last 2-5 years without encountering any major problems as long as you have annual car A/C service such as 24 point car/A/C diagnostics and performance

Would you like to know more about your vehicle’s air conditioning system? Discover how the car air conditioner works

How do you know when your air conditioner needs to be re-fumigated?

The first sign that your air conditioner needs re-gassing is when the air being blown out of the vents isn’t as cool as it used to be or doesn’t feel any different when the air conditioner is off.

If you can’t remember when the system was last re-gassed, it’s probably worth doing. Alternatively, many specialists are happy to carry out a free check.

Is a Regas part of a service?

While regular maintenance of your car is important to keep it in reliable and roadworthy condition, services rarely cover air conditioning and that includes the service performed by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Our advice is to go to a car air conditioning specialist like Jack Frost who will do a Regas service professionally and also offer a 6 month warranty.

Our diagnostic and recharge prices start at $99 and vary by season, cellular service and other unforeseen factors.

When your car’s air conditioning system is serviced, the technician should check the system’s lubricant level and replace the old refrigerant gas with new gas up to the required level.

You should also perform a vacuum test to look for any cracks or leaks that could prevent your air conditioner from working in the future.

How Often Should You Charge Your Air Conditioner?

Most vehicle manufacturers recommend servicing or re-fuming your car’s air conditioning system every 1-2 years. Whether you use your car’s air conditioning a lot or hardly, air conditioning gas will continue to permeate through the system over time, so having an air conditioning service every two years will keep the gas topped up and the system lubricated so you can keep it running always have a cool blast ready when you need it most.

Even in the top class, there will be around 10% gas loss in the air conditioning system every year, resulting in less cold air. Also remember that a malfunctioning unit will put more stress on your engine and therefore result in increased fuel consumption.

What happens if I don’t refuel my air conditioner?

If you don’t refuel the air conditioning, it will gradually become less efficient, making the car uncomfortable in hot weather and taking longer to defog the windows in winter.

Not re-gassing your air conditioner is also bad for it in the long run, as pipes are likely to rupture and parts to seize when not in use.

How long does it take to charge an air conditioner?

The car air conditioner charging process takes about 45-60 minutes to completely remove the old gas and refill with fresh refrigerant.

At Jack Frost you can have your AC charged while you wait and use our free WiFi in our customer waiting area at our workshop in Mt Gravatt East. With mobile service, we can conveniently carry out the service at work or at home.

Where can I get my air conditioner charged?

At Jack Frost Car Air Conditioning we offer a full air conditioning charging service through our Mt Gravatt East workshop as well as our mobile service in North and South Brisbane.

Our service includes:

Perform a comprehensive inspection of your car’s air conditioning system.

Pressurize the system with our highly traceable n95/h5 nitrogen/hydrogen leak detector gas

Comprehensive leak test of your evaporator core behind the dash (nobody else does this!), compressor, condenser and hoses

Inspect all visible components of the system to ensure their integrity, and also test and inspect the electrical circuitry and operation.

Note: If your car’s air conditioning suddenly stopped working, it means your system has a leak somewhere and re-fuming will not fix the problem.

All leaks must be repaired before we can legally regas your system.