Expert Automotive Air Conditioning Services in Gladesville

As your vehicle ages, or when the air conditioning system is used infrequently, bacteria, micro-organisms, mould, and fungi may start growing just behind the dash panel on the evaporator, causing some very unpleasant odours. Some even claim this can result in headaches and flu-like symptoms, sometimes called "sick car syndrome."

This problem can be solved by using an anti-bacterial treatment that destroys the bacteria growth and leaves your car smelling fresh again.

If you feel that your car doesn't feel as cold as your friend's car, then your system may need servicing. Most manufacturers' servicing schedules do not usually cover the air conditioning system in your vehicle, and the refrigerant gas used to operate the system depletes over time. On average most vehicles lose up to 15% per annum. This leakage can be caused when the system is not used during winter. Thus allowing the small "O" ring seals to dry out, resulting in a gradual deterioration in system performance. If this continues, the system will eventually be unable to operate at all.

Most problems of this type can be put right fairly easily by a leak check of your system followed by a complete refill of your air conditioning refrigerant, sometimes referred to as a re-gas.

If you run the air conditioning in the winter, it will help to keep the system well-lubricated and leak-tight. This is because the refrigerant carries the oil that lubricates the system and, most importantly, the compressor. It also keeps the seals and hoses moist, thus preventing them from drying out and cracking, which can lead to leaks.

Suppose your air-con system suddenly starts making noises you have not heard before. In that case, it is very advisable to have a qualified vehicle air conditioning specialist look at it.

Some noises could be early symptoms of a compressor failure (the compressor is the air conditioning pump). The compressor is usually the most expensive part of the system. If the bearings in your compressor break down or if the compressor seizes up, it also means that other components can become contaminated with metal particles. A flush of the system would then be needed, as well as replacement of the compressor, the receiver/drier and the expansion valve – quite a hefty bill!

Don't be alarmed if you see a puddle of water on the ground, usually under the passenger area. This is a normal feature of the system as it is only water dripping from the air conditioning evaporator. The evaporator has a drain tube fitted to allow the condensation from the evaporator to drain away from the vehicle.

Sometimes the drain tube from the evaporator may become blocked or detached, allowing the condensation to build up inside your evaporator. If this occurs, water will build up inside your car to a point where there are damp carpets or misting / high humidity type problems. These problems can be solved with low-cost servicing.

Just as the other systems of your car need servicing regularly, the same is true for the air conditioning system. The compressor needs oil, or else it will seize up. The filter collects debris and moisture. If the filter becomes blocked, then the performance of the system will deteriorate, and it can even quit working entirely (probably when you need it most!)

Normally the refrigerant gas in a car air conditioning system has to be recharged completely within four years from the manufacture date and, after that, every two to three years.

An annual servicing of your car's air conditioning system will guard against compressor and other vital system parts malfunctions. Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run and guarantee you comfort in the hottest months.