Everything you need to know about your AC condenser

Vehicles are originally meant to be people carrier. But thanks to the intelligent people behind every car-related innovation, vehicles have become more than just modes of transportation.

These days, automobiles are designed to be smarter, more convenient, and much more comfortable for the occupants. One of the parts that make all these qualities possible is the in-car air conditioning. If you were ever stuck in traffic in the middle of summer, you’d thank the gods for this.

The first in-car air conditioning system was invented way back in 1933. It wasn’t even a built-in feature yet. But the customers were only luxury car and limousine owners. It wasn’t until 1939 that Packard decided to build air conditioners into cars.

The first in-car air conditioning system was invented way back in 1933

These were the product of Bishop and Babcock Co., a company located in Cleveland, Ohio. This company’s product also included a heater and was named the Bishop and Babcock Weather Conditioner.

The vehicles that ordered these features had to be shipped from the East Grand Boulevard. This is where Packard’s facility was located. It was then received at the B&B factory where the weather conditioner is added. From then on, ideas from other manufacturers started to come together until we have the air conditioning systems we know today.

One of the vital parts of every air conditioning system is the air conditioning condenser. Without it, you wouldn’t be sitting comfortably in your plush car seat saved from the heat of the environment outside. But what exactly is an AC condenser? What does it do? Why is it important? Does it need maintenance? Get all the answers to that in this article from Philkotse.com.

1. What is an AC condenser?

The AC condenser is the radiator that sits between the radiator’s motor and the car grille. This is where the gaseous refrigerant releases the heat and returns to its liquid form. To put it simply, the condenser’s job is to condense the refrigerant from a gas state to liquid.

The liquid refrigerant oozes to the evaporator in the dashboard. This is where it cools your car’s cabin. It basically works just like the radiator under your hood. So if the inside of the car is not cool enough for you, there may be a problem with your air conditioning condenser. Here are some of the common problems that you can have in connection with the AC condenser.

The AC condenser is the radiator that sits between the radiator’s motor and the car grille

>>> Check out: How to Ensure the air-conditioning system is Well-distributed in the Car.

The AC cooling capability has reduced

This is usually one of the very first symptoms that something is wrong with your AC. If your AC condenser is damaged, this will result in the restricted flow of the refrigerant. In turn, the entire air conditioning system will work less efficiently. If the refrigerant can’t flow properly, the cool air that your AC releases will be much less.

The reduced cooling capability is usually one of the very first symptoms that something is wrong with your AC

There are noticeable leaks

This is a sign that you certainly can’t miss. A noticeable leak is one of the surest indicators that it is true, something wrong with your condenser. This can be a sign of old age or significant damage. If your condenser does leak, the high-pressure refrigerant will most likely ooze out. This could lead to the entire AC system getting disabled.

The size of the leak can vary, but the effect will pretty much be the same. If this happens to your AC, you will need to have the condenser replaced. If you have any suspicions as to the state of your AC condenser, consider having it looked at by a licensed professional.

A noticeable leak is one of the surest indicators that it is true, something wrong with your condenser

>>> Also check: 4 Hacks on How to Find Car Air Conditioner Leaks.

2. Frequently asked questions about AC condenser

Still, want to know more about your AC condenser but don’t know where to start? Here are a few frequently asked questions you can start with:

How often should my air conditioning condenser be replaced?

Like most equipment, your condenser won’t need to be replaced often if it’s properly taken care of. But there are still some mechanics who recommend replacing the condenser after a brief period of time. Before finally deciding on a replacement, you first have to look for signs of damage and corrosion. This will help you determine whether it’s the condenser that’s really at fault.

Why would I even need to have an AC condenser in my car?

Well, primarily, it’s because an air conditioning condenser is a vital part of the cooling system. Without it, you won’t be satisfied with the capability of your in-car AC. You also won’t be able to tell whether your AC unit is broken.

There are external condensers that can be cleaned off very easily. An internal flush may be necessary for other AC condensers. But the usual tip from most expert mechanics is to have the clogged or damaged replaced instead.

>>> TIps for you: 

• 4 most common car air conditioning problems & How to fix them.
•  Automobile air conditioning system: Basic cleaning tips for Pinoy drivers.

3. Tips and Recommendations

You can increase the efficiency of your in-car air conditioning system by just cleaning the condenser. Although we already discussed that, this fact usually amazes a lot of vehicle owners until now.

One of the biggest causes of failing air conditioners is the increased pressure in the ac compressor. This equals to more unnecessary heat that breaks the lubricant down. After this, you pretty much just have to wait before your condenser fails on you.

You can increase the efficiency of your in-car air conditioning system by just cleaning the condenser

Since we’re already talking about cleaning the ac condenser, here are some of the supplies you can consider for the job.

• Nu Brite Cleaner – This is one of the leading brands in the market if you want one with good reviews. The manufacturers are responsible for the number one selling coil cleaner in the US. It comes in an aerosol can and is a high-foaming product. It can effectively clean and degrease your air conditioner’s coils.
• The Nu Brite R1 Aircon Coil Cleaner can be bought at approximately Php 300.00 in a local e-commerce shop. There are also other brands that you can settle for. These are usually cheaper, and you can get almost a gallon of the formula for your Php 300.00.
• Air Conditioner Fin Comb – We don’t have a suggested brand for this, but you can pretty much get the most out of any manufacturer. This fin comb cleans and straightens evaporator and condenser films. It usually has a six-sided head.