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Your car’s AC system relies on a refrigerant known as freon to create cold air. Leaks and heavy use can cause the refrigerant to run low, affecting the system's ability to keep your vehicle cool. Here are a few signs that your vehicle is low on freon and needs recharging from an auto air conditioning repair service.

How to Tell if Your Car’s AC Needs Freon

1. It's Blowing Warm Air

The distribution of warm or hot air may indicate that the air conditioning system is low on freon. The compressor in the vehicle pressurizes the refrigerant, turning it from a gas into a liquid that chills the air emitted from the AC vents. When freon levels are low, the system can’t adequately cool the air, which results in the system blowing room temperature air. 

2. There’s Ice on the Compressor

auto air conditioningIce on your vehicle's compressor is often the result of a leak. Leaks in your AC lines can introduce air into the system that then converts to moisture when the freon levels are low.

The moisture can then freeze, blocking the flow of refrigerant and preventing it from cooling the vehicle. In this case, you’ll likely need auto air conditioning repair.

3. The AC Clutch Won't Engage

The vehicle's AC system uses an electro-magnetic clutch to engage and disengage the air conditioning compressor. This clutch works by reading the freon levels in the vehicle, and when there isn’t enough, the clutch won't engage. When this happens, the air conditioning compressor can't pump refrigerant, making the system ineffective.  

 

For auto air conditioning repairs, including freon recharging, contact the professionals at Mullanphy Tire & Automotive in Florissant, MO. With over 30 years of experience, their skilled automotive team has provided a variety of auto services, including routine maintenance, engine repair, and battery replacement. Call (314) 921-4961 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to view a full list of their services.

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