Types of Car A/C Systems
Modern car A/C systems have evolved greatly since they first appeared! Now they come in three types: mechanical, electrical, and hybrid. Each system has its advantages. Let’s discover the differences between them and help you figure out which one suits you best:
- Mechanical A/C systems
- Electrical A/C systems
- Hybrid A/C systems
Compressor-based systems
Most cars today use a compressor-based air-con system. It comprises five components – a compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-drier, and thermostatic expansion valve. It works with two circuits – the low-pressure side (with the evaporator) and the high-pressure side (with the condenser and compressor)—refrigerant cycles between these two to cool the car’s interior.
The compressor pumps refrigerant through the system to lower temps. The condenser turns the gas back into a liquid before sending it to an expansion valve. This then regulates how much refrigerant passes through the liquid line to a metering device.
The metering device directs refrigerant into the evaporator core. Hot air from the car passes over it and is cooled. The cooled air flows through the car’s vents. The hot air passes over another set of tubes and radiators – the receiver-drier. This filters out moisture from AC condensation, ensuring no freezing or problems with other components.
Evaporator-based systems
Evaporator-based systems, or thermoelectric air conditioners, are standard in most cars. This system uses an evaporator to cool air and blow it into the cabin.
The process starts when warm air from outside enters the car, passes through the evaporator and is released as cold air. The compressor compresses liquid refrigerant gas, creating high-pressure vapors circulating in the unit to absorb warmth and release it elsewhere. This heat exchange process cools down cabin temperatures while using minimal energy.
Evaporator-based AC systems are simple and cheap to run. They usually have two components: an evaporator assembly below the dashboard and a compressor near or on the engine. They offer good cooling, temperature control, and low servicing costs compared to car AC systems like water chillers or direct evaporative cooling units.
How the Systems Work
Your car’s air conditioner (AC) system functions similarly to the AC in your home. It utilizes a compressor, condenser, and evaporator to chill the air inside your vehicle. But, in contrast to your home’s AC system, your car’s AC does not necessitate gas or any other power source. So, how does it work? Let’s investigate!
Compressor-based systems
Compressor-based systems, or conventional systems, are the air conditioning systems most often found in today’s vehicles. Gas is the power source, and liquid refrigerant circulates through ducts in the firewall into and away from the evaporator in the car’s interior.
These systems consist of four components: a compressor, an expansion valve, an accumulator, and an evaporator.
The compressor draws gaseous Freon from the accumulator, compresses it to a high temp, and sends it to the evaporator coil core. The Freon condenses, releasing heat into the outside air. This cools the car’s interior until the desired temperature setpoint is reached.
The gas is then sent back to the compressor, where the cycle starts again. Hot air is recirculated while cool air is taken inside with a blower motor. When AC ignition is switched off, no more refrigerant circulates. Coldness stops instantly inside the car.
The difference will be noticeable if switched back on after a few hours. Extra insulation can prevent overheating. If not enough, overheating can occur—signs of this need to be checked regularly. Driving slowly can avoid dangerous situations.
Evaporator-based systems
Evaporator-based systems are the most popular air conditioning. They have an air handler for circulation, filtration, and humidity control. These systems have heating elements and need lots of power. They are usually controlled with wired thermostats. These can be inside or outside, based on the user’s climate and wants.
The main piece is the evaporator or A-Coil. It is inside a furnace cabinet or duct. It has copper tubes with refrigerant. The fan pulls air through the coil to cool the home.
The other central part is the condenser. It is outside, at ground level. It exchanges heat between two systems – hot outside air and cool refrigerant from the AC unit’s compressor. The blower fan precools the warm return air before it reaches the evaporator coil. This cools the home while transferring outdoor heat away. This improves efficiency by reducing strain on the compressor in hot summer months.
Does the A/C Use Gas?
Do you wonder if your car’s air conditioning uses gas? Usually not! Most modern car ACs use refrigerant. Refrigerant is a type of chemical. It cools the air by taking away heat. Refrigerant is much better than gas-powered air conditioning systems.
Let’s see how car AC works and why it does not use gas!
Compressor-based systems
Compressor-based air conditioners are the go-to choice for efficient cooling. They use an electric motor and refrigerants like Freon, R-22, or R-410A to cool and dehumidify the air. Most have an outdoor unit housing the compressor and condenser fan motor.
The refrigerants used in these systems may be gas or liquid. Older models use hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC). However, due to their environmental impact, HCFC has been phased out since 2020. Now, we use hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) or ozone-friendly options such as R32 or HFO blends.
It’s worth noting that if the central AC uses electricity instead of gasoline for its motor, it does not use any combustible fuel for operation.
Evaporator-based systems
Evaporator-based systems are a type of car Air Conditioning. It uses refrigerant to absorb heat and remove it from the car. The gas used is R134a. This is an HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) which has a strong smell.
In these systems, the compressor circulates a liquid. This is usually a water/ethylene glycol solution. This passes through an evaporator linked to the car’s cabin via tubes. The HFC cools this liquid. This creates an insulated environment that stops energy from escaping.
The AC then sends out cold air from the vents in the dashboard. This is colder than the outside temperature. It does this by absorbing heat from inside the car.
Many modern cars are now using electric/hybrid evaporators. They use less gas than before. So, if you have one, you’ll spend less time at the pump!
Benefits of A/C Systems
Many do not understand the importance of an A/C system in their car until it stops working. It helps keep the car’s interior climate pleasant and boosts overall performance and fuel efficiency. Here are some benefits of having an A/C system in your car:
- Provides a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle.
- Reduces the strain on the engine by cooling the air entering the engine.
- Reduces window fogging, which improves visibility and safety.
- Reduces the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens in the car.
- It improves fuel efficiency by reducing the strain on the engine.
Compressor-based systems
Modern autos use compressor-based AC systems to chill their interiors. An electric air conditioning compressor sends refrigerant through valves, condensers, and hoses. This is usually installed near the engine’s belt drive system.
Compressor-based systems have many advantages:
- They provide steady cooling in all conditions, regardless of speed.
- They don’t rely on airflow but on a refrigerant cycle.
- Furthermore, they consume energy efficiently as the engine is already running.
- Regular tune-ups help keep energy consumption low while keeping the car pleasant.
Evaporator-based systems
Evaporator-based cooling systems are the most common type used in vehicles. They generally include an evaporator, condenser, motor, compressor, and expansion valve. The evaporator houses refrigerant cooled by outside air, circling through the car cabin.
The evaporator cools the air and protects passengers from extreme heat. It absorbs heat from the cabin and converts it into cooler temperatures.
An evaporator-based system has plenty of advantages, such as:
- Improved efficiency
- Reduced environmental impact
- Quieter operation
- Longer-lasting maintenance-free equipment
Drivers don’t have to worry about their air conditioning system failing while they’re on vacation or out on a drive.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Having your car AC in good nick is vital, especially in the scorching summer. Knowing how it works and how to maintain it is critical. Does your car AC use gas? We’ll answer this and other questions here so that you can stay informed about car AC maintenance and troubleshooting.
Compressor-based systems
Compressor-based systems are a common type of heating and cooling unit in homes. An outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator connect to air or refrigerant ducts. They draw air in, cool it, then circulate it back out.
These systems should be maintained in a home for peak efficiency, longer operation life, and reliable performance. Maintenance includes:
- Changing/cleaning filters
- Cleaning coils
- Evaluating electrical connections
- Measuring refrigerant levels
- Testing safety devices
- Measuring static pressure
Any problems during maintenance should be fixed promptly.
Troubleshooting compressor-based systems include diagnosing problems with internal/outdoor/indoor components and controls like thermostats or blower motors. Common repairs may include removing debris from coils or replacing parts like capacitors or fan blades. These repairs may need a professional technician with specialized tools.
Evaporator-based systems
Evaporator-based systems are standard in newer cars. They often have components that are sensitive to the type of refrigerant used.
The AC system absorbs heat from the environment with a liquid chemical refrigerant. This evaporates, cooling the car interior. Then, the substance flows through the radiator. The compressor condenses it back into a liquid. Depending on the type of refrigerant, you may need a refill of either R12/R134a gas or R1234yf gas.
A certified technician must handle these specific gases. They are dangerous chemicals that need proper handling and post-processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my car AC use gas?
No, your car’s air conditioning system does not use gas. It uses a refrigerant, similar to a coolant, to cool the air inside the vehicle.
How does the car AC work?
The air conditioning system in your car works by using a compressor to pressurize the refrigerant, which causes it to become freezing. This cold air is then circulated through the vents in your vehicle to cool the interior.
How often should I have my car AC serviced?
Having your car, AC serviced at least once a year is recommended. This will help ensure that it operates efficiently and that potential problems are addressed before becoming more significant.
