AC Condenser Replacement
What is an AC condenser?
As high pressure refrigerant is pumped from the A/C compressor, it flows through a refrigerant line and into the air conditioning condenser. The condenser is located next to the radiator and serves a similar function. The condenser transforms high pressure, high temperature gas into high pressure slightly lower temperature liquid needed for A/C function.
How does the AC condenser work?
When air flows across the air conditioning condenser, it cools the gaseous refrigerant inside the condenser, and allows it to exit in a liquid state, ready to travel to the next A/C component: the accumulator.
What are the symptoms related to a bad AC condenser?
When the condenser fails, the air conditioner will fail along with it. The engine idle speed will not undulate as normal when the air conditioner is turned on, and the air in the vehicle will be just warmer than ambient temperature.
Can I drive with an AC condenser problem?
Driving with a faulty condenser is not comfortable in warm weather, but will not cause harm to the vehicle. However, if the condenser is leaking, it may also allow dust into the system, and cause blockage once a repair has been made.
How often do AC condensers need to be replaced?
Failure of an air conditioning condenser is normally due to physical damage, but debris in the air conditioning system can cause it to clog. If the small metal fins on the exterior of the condenser become matted with a foreign substance, the condenser will not function properly, but may be repairable with a specialty comb.
The location of the AC condenser makes it prone to damage if the vehicle is involved in a front-end collision. If such a collision occurs, the AC system should be closely inspected to ensure that it is operating correctly and not in danger of failing at a later date.