As the seasons change, so do the weather conditions outside. Our car’s A/C and heater systems are important for a comfortable ride, whether it’s hot or cold outside. However, sometimes these systems can break down, leaving us in uncomfortable situations.
Here, we’ll explain car A/C and heaters, including how they work and common issues with solutions.
How do your car’s A/C and heater work?
Your car’s heating system directly connects to the engine’s cooling system. They both use the same coolant (also known as antifreeze) for their operation. Here’s how it works:
Cooling the Engine: Coolant absorbs engine heat and cools it down with the help of the radiator. This prevents the engine from overheating and causing damage.
Heating the Cabin: The heating system uses this hot coolant to warm up the cabin of your vehicle. The car heater uses a small device called the heater core. The heater core takes in hot coolant and works like a mini radiator. The fan moves hot air from the heater to warm up the cabin.
Your car’s heater uses the coolant that cools the engine, which may seem surprising but is true. Maintaining your coolant is necessary for both the performance of your engine and your comfort in cold weather.
What We Do:
- Air conditioning system diagnostics
- Car A/C recharge & service
- Check A/C pressure & output temperature
- Diagnose potential A/C component problems
- Heating system repair
- Inspect belts & hoses for aging and potential failure
- Inspect blower fan & compressor
- Courtesy service inspection
How does car air conditioning work?
Car AC cools and removes moisture from the air in the vehicle, then sends the cool air back inside. The A/C system uses a refrigerant that cycles through a compressor, condenser, and evaporator.
The refrigerant absorbs heat and moisture as it passes through the evaporator. This process cools and dries the air. The air then comes out of the vents.
Does air conditioning in the car use gas?
No, air conditioning in the car does not use gas directly. However, it does put more strain on the engine, which in turn can lead to increased fuel consumption. So, while the A/C doesn’t consume gas directly, it does affect fuel efficiency.
What makes a car’s heater work but not the air conditioner?
Several factors can cause the air conditioner to not work, even when the heater is functional. This includes a leak in the A/C system, a malfunctioning compressor, or a clogged orifice tube. A qualified technician can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs.
Why does my car’s air conditioning need recharging?
Over time, your car’s AC can become less efficient as refrigerant leaks out or gets used up. When the refrigerant level drops too low, the air conditioning system cannot cool the air effectively. When the warmer air blows into the vehicle, it makes the interior uncomfortable, especially in hot weather.
Recharging the system involves replenishing the refrigerant to restore the AC system’s ability to cool the air. If your car’s AC system often needs recharging, it might have a leak that requires fixing.
Can I perform a car AC recharge myself, or should I go to a professional?
We recommend getting a professional to recharge your AC system instead of trying it yourself with a kit. This ensures that the task is completed correctly and safely. Contact a Best-One service advisor to schedule an appointment today.
How does the heater in my vehicle work?
The heater in your vehicle works by using the engine’s hot coolant to provide warmth to the cabin of the car. The hot coolant passes through the heater core, which mounts inside the dashboard. The heater core transfers heat to the air. The blower motor fan circulates the hot air throughout the vehicle.
Does heat in the car use gas?
Yes, the heat in your car does use gas, but indirectly. The engine in your car produces the heat, and it runs on gasoline. However, using the heater doesn’t burn extra gasoline. Your car heater generates warm air by using the heat from the engine that would otherwise go to waste.
Heating the car’s cabin can slow down engine warming. A cold engine burns more fuel as it tries to warm up. Therefore, forcing the heater to warm up quickly or using it at full power can marginally increase fuel consumption.
Why isn’t there any heat in my car?
There are several reasons why a car’s heater may not produce heat. These include a broken thermostat, a blocked heater core, low coolant levels, or a faulty blower motor fan. It’s essential to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the issue to ensure that the heater functions correctly. Contact a Best-One service advisor to schedule an appointment.
How much does car heater or air conditioning repair cost?
The cost of car air conditioning repairs can vary depending on the make and model of the car and the type of repair required. Regular maintenance and repair can extend the lifespan of the air conditioning system and lower long-term repair expenses. For an estimate for your vehicle, contact a Best-One service advisor.
How long does heating & air conditioning service take?
At a Best-One Tire & Service location, auto air conditioning flush and fills are typically a same-day service. Depending on what our service technicians find, it may take longer to for car ac repair or heating system in your car. To ensure you get in and out as quickly as possible, please be sure to schedule an appointment.
Schedule a Heater or A/C Repair or Recharge Near You
At Best-One Tire & Service, we want every customer to walk away from their service experience and tell others why they are Raving Fans of Best-One. When you choose Best-One for car air conditioning repair or an A/C recharge near you, we’ll do our very best to deliver the service you need, at a competitive price, from people who treat you like family.