What Are The Causes Of High Pressure In The Condenser?
It is a sound practice to check both the low as well as high readings of the A/C. If readings register abnormally low or high, the figures could indicate a serious issue with the compressor. It means that your A/C compressor may require a replacement or repair. If excessive amounts of pressure build up inside the compressor, it can cause the aluminum to distort or leakage within the evaporator coils. The cost of compressor replacement or repair can be high as the dash needs to be removed for rectification.
Now, you have to note that the higher than normal temperature readings acquired from your independent tests might just be the tip of the iceberg. The high readings are more damaging than you think because compressors are designed to work within a specific range. High pressure in parts like the condenser might gradually lead to the failure of the compressor. If you do not correct these issues in time, the repairs can cost a fortune.
Possible Causes of High Pressure within the Condenser
- The initial condenser installation procedure was poorly executed
What you can do: You can start by checking if the distance between the condenser and radiator, and that the air hose (where relevant) is correctly positioned. The distance is approximately 15 to 20 mm.
- The coolant has overheated
What you can do: In this case, check your car’s own cooling system.
- The electric fan has malfunctioned
What you can do: For instance, it might be rotating in the wrong direction. You should check to ensure that the electric fan is working in a way that it sends air into the engine compartment.
- The switch for the radiator fan has failed
What you can do: Direct the power supply to the electric fan. If the fan does not work, it needs to be replaced. In some cases, the pressure switch and temperature switch may not be engaged at the relevant pressure values and temperature. Control the contact points on the thermostat and pressure switch. Check to see if it is necessary to replace any defective components
- There is insufficient air flow
What you can do: Clean the condenser and radiator. The problem could be caused by dirt accumulation happening on the condenser and/or the radiator. Conduct the checks when the vehicle hits a mileage of 25,000 to 30,000 kilometers.
How do Car A/C Condensers Work?
Flexible hoses and hard tubing connect all the components of a car’s A/C system. Condensation and evaporation, compression and expansion are the physics of why it works. In today’s systems, there are five main components, namely the condenser, compressor, evaporator, expansion valve, and the dryer-receiver.
Condensers refer to the device used to change high-pressure refrigerant vapor into a liquid state. It is usually mounted in front of the engine’s radiator. In fact, its looks do resemble a radiator. As mentioned, the vapor is condensed to a liquid due to the high pressure driving it in. This process can generate a significant amount of heat, which will be removed from the condenser by air flowing through from the outside.