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In the sweltering heat of New Mexico, a functioning air conditioning (AC) system in your vehicle isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here at Dr. J’s Auto Clinic, we understand how crucial it is to stay cool and comfortable during those hot days. That’s why we’re here to share some insights into how your vehicle’s AC system works and why an annual AC service is essential.
How Does Your Vehicle’s AC System Work?
Your car’s AC system operates on a closed-loop process involving refrigerant. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Compression: The compressor compresses the refrigerant, raising its temperature and pressure.
- Condensation: The hot, pressurized refrigerant then flows through the condenser where it loses heat to the outside air and condenses into a liquid.
- Expansion: The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, where it experiences a drop in pressure, cools further, and partially evaporates.
- Evaporation: This cool, low-pressure refrigerant then travels through the evaporator coil inside the cabin, absorbing heat from the interior air and cooling it down before the cycle repeats.
What Does an AC Service Include?
An AC service at Dr. J’s Auto Clinic involves several key steps to ensure your system is running efficiently:
- Inspection: We start by inspecting the AC components for any signs of wear or damage.
- Performance Check: We assess the system’s performance, including airflow and temperature measurements.
- Refrigerant Level Check: We check the refrigerant level and recharge it if necessary.
- Leak Test: Using specialized equipment, we test for leaks in the system.
- Cleaning: We clean the condenser and evaporator coils to improve efficiency.
Annual AC Service: Why It’s Recommended in New Mexico
Given our local climate, we strongly recommend an annual AC service to avoid unexpected issues during the hot days. Regular maintenance not only ensures your comfort but also prevents more significant and costly repairs down the line. It keeps the system efficient, extends its lifespan, and can improve fuel economy since a struggling AC system makes the engine work harder.
