When you get into your car and turn on the air conditioning, why does it blow hot air instead of cool? It’s time to troubleshoot that issue because hot air blowing from your vents isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s also dangerous for your vehicle and you. Here are some common reasons your car A/C might be blowing hot air instead of cold and what you can do about it.
How Does the HVAC System Work?
The HVAC system in your car comprises multiple components that work together to provide cool air. Among them are a compressor, condenser, fan, and evaporator. In addition, the A/C system in your vehicle works much like the A/C in your house. The air is cooled and dehumidified due to the A/C extracting heat energy and moisture from interior air. Any problems with one or more of the components of your A/C will prevent it from working correctly. But even if all these components are working right, you may find that your car’s air conditioner still isn’t cooling effectively. Why? Maybe it’s just not running long enough to cool down your vehicle sufficiently, or maybe another issue is preventing the A/C system from working correctly.
Clean the Condenser Coil
A dirty condenser coil can contribute to your air conditioner blowing hot air. To troubleshoot, remove it and clean it with a garden hose. If you’re uncomfortable doing so yourself, take it to an auto shop for a thorough cleaning. In addition, the cabin air filter should be clean to allow sufficient airflow. A dirty filter can eventually cause the system to freeze up due to insufficient airflow.
Is the Refrigerant Level OK?
The A/C system in your car relies on refrigerant to cool and dehumidify the air in your vehicle. If this refrigerant is low, your car’s A/C will not cool as efficiently as when your vehicle was new. Keep in mind that A/C refrigerant operates in a sealed system, and as a result, low levels of refrigerant signal a leak somewhere or underfilling in the first place. So if your car’s A/C isn’t getting as cool as you would like it to, the best thing to do is to have a professional look at it and determine what’s wrong.
The good news is that your car’s A/C typically will give you several years of hassle-free use. However, if you aren’t feeling the cool air like you once did, bring your vehicle to your auto care professional for an inspection.