3 Indicators of a Bad or Failing Car Air Conditioning Unit

During summer, temperatures can rise to uncontrollable levels, more so in the afternoon hours. Because of that, you need a well-functioning car air conditioner to keep you cool when driving. A car air conditioner has various components that work together to ensure that it is fully functional. That makes it hard to know the exact component that has an issue when your AC develops a problem. However, several signs may indicate you have a bad or failing car air conditioning system.

1. Poor Air Supply from the AC 

The refrigerant controls the cooling functionalities of your air conditioner. If there is a refrigerant leak, you will often experience an insufficient supply of cool air in the car. Refrigerant leaks are one of the most complicated car problems since they are hard to detect. Because of that, you need an experienced technician to inspect your AC unit and unearth the genesis of the leak. Once they've identified the source of the leak, they will seal it and perform evacuation and recharge to restore the AC's functionality.

2. Strange Smell in the Vehicle

An unusual odour inside the car is often a sign of a failing or dying car air conditioning unit. In most cases, the strange smell results from the growth of bacteria, mould, fungi and other microbes in the system. An older car is likely to experience this problem more than a newer one. 

When you notice the strange smell, hire a reputable technician to unclog or replace the filters. If that does not solve the problem, the technician might need to use chemicals to kill bacteria build-up in the evaporator.

3. Strange Sounds When Running the Vehicle

A well-functioning air conditioner is usually quiet when running. Thus, a noisy car AC is often an obvious indicator that all is not well. The noise can result from a debris blockage in the unit. Sometimes, a broken, cracked, or failing component can produce banging, rattling, or other unfamiliar sounds. 

Ignoring the problem might make it worse. As such, you should seek professional help as soon as you hear strange sounds when you turn on the air conditioner. By inspecting the unit, the technician will determine the source of the noise and recommend a suitable solution. 

If you notice any of these signs or anything out of the ordinary, your car air conditioning system could be failing. These warning signs require you to take your car for immediate auto servicing. With timely repairs, you will save yourself many costs and headaches down the line.

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