A/C Compressor Service

A/C Compressor Service Near Marshall, TX

Whether it is cold or hot outside, you always want to be able to control the climate inside your vehicle, so you expect your air conditioning (A/C) system to work well. If you have a bad air compressor in your A/C system, you will not only have an uncomfortable drive, but it can also lead to safety concerns when you are out on the road. Not to worry though, if you think you may need to have the A/C compressor serviced and you live in or near Gladewater, Marshall, or Shreveport, LA, bring your car, truck, SUV, or minivan to Stanley Ford Gilmer to have it checked out. 

If your compressor fails, you’ll want to get it replaced right away. which can cost between $800 and $1,500 to replace it. To prevent such a costly repair, have your compressor serviced before it starts having problems.

What Does an Air Compressor Do?

Your compressor serves to compress the refrigerant in your A/C and circulate it throughout the system. It is kind of like the heart of your A/C. The process works like this:

1. It takes in low-pressure cool refrigerant gas like freon.
2. The gas goes into the compressor where it is pressurized, and the temperature increases considerably.
3. The hot gas moves into the condenser where it is transformed into a very cold high-pressure liquid that draws heat from the cabin.
4. This heated liquid now passes through an expansion valve that turns it back into a low-pressure gas and the cycle begins all over.

Why is Your Vehicle’s A/C Compressor Important?

When the temperature outside increases, you want your vehicle’s cabin temperature to decrease, especially when summer temperatures soar. The humidity (moisture in the atmosphere) increases and shoots the heat index up to potentially dangerous levels. When that happens, the temperature inside your cabin is even hotter due to the greenhouse effect.

Your A/C is also responsible for reducing the amount of moisture in the cabin. When the moisture is removed from inside the cabin, it is condensed and drained outside. It also assists in eliminating fog that can obstruct your vision when you are driving in the rain. It also prevents or helps reduce the frost on windows in the winter. By helping to regulate temperature and improve your ability to see, you can drive safer.

How to Know If Your Compressor Needs to Be Serviced

If you are having problems with your compressor, the signs are obvious:

• Increased fuel usage: Your vehicle may use more fuel if the A/C isn’t cooling properly, and you have to run it more.
• Unpleasant aromas: a sweet-ish chemical smell may be noticed when the engine runs.
• More frequent cycling on and off: If you have problems with the compressor, it may cycle more frequently.
• Refrigerant leaks: Hissing noises or bubbles when the compressor is coated with soapy water.
• Uneven or insufficient cooling: It may no longer be able to adequately cool the cabin because pressure is low.
• Odd vibrations and noises: Shafts, bearings, and other internal parts can cause noise and vibrations that are noticeable in the cabin if they are worn out.

If you notice any of these signs, contact us at Stanley Ford Gilmer or set up an appointment for service online with our service department.