How to Check for Car Air Conditioning Leaks?
2 Answers
Check for car air conditioning leaks using the following methods: 1. Soap Water Leak Detection: Fill the system with nitrogen at 10-20 kg/cm² pressure, then apply soapy water to various parts of the system. Bubbles will appear at the leakage points. 2. Nitrogen Water Leak Detection: Fill the system with nitrogen at 10-20 kg/cm² pressure, then immerse the system in water. Bubbles will indicate leakage points. 3. Halogen Lamp Leak Detection: Light the leak detection lamp and hold the air tube of the halogen lamp. When the tube opening is near a leakage point in the system, the flame color will turn purple-blue, indicating a significant leak. 4. Gas Differential Pressure Leak Detection: Utilize the pressure difference inside and outside the system, amplify the pressure difference through a sensor, and express the leak detection results digitally, audibly, or via electronic signals.
The simplest way I've found to detect an AC refrigerant leak is by using soapy water. Fill a spray bottle with soapy water and spray it on all the AC pipe connections, paying special attention to joints like the compressor and condenser. If you see bubbles forming at any spot, that's definitely the leak point. It's quite convenient to check during regular car washes. But remember, don't just focus on the pipes – also thoroughly inspect vulnerable components like the AC system's seals and pipe connectors that are prone to aging. If the leak is at the condenser, you'll likely see oil stains on the surface since refrigerant and compressor oil leak together. This method can easily be done at home – just mix some dish soap with water and you're good to go.
