What Causes the Car Air Conditioner to Cool but Have Weak Airflow?
2 Answers
Reduced airflow in a car air conditioner is typically caused by a clogged air filter. Below is an introduction to car air conditioning systems: 1. Air Conditioning Layout: Different types of air conditioning systems have varying layout methods. Currently, most passenger cars use an integrated heating and cooling air conditioning system. Its layout involves assembling components such as the evaporator, heater core, centrifugal blower, and control mechanism into a single unit, known as the air conditioning assembly. 2. Air Conditioning Components: Modern air conditioning systems consist of a refrigeration system, heating system, ventilation and air purification devices, and a control system. The main components of a car air conditioner typically include the compressor, electronically controlled clutch, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, receiver-drier, piping, condenser fan, vacuum solenoid valve, idle speed controller, and control system. The car air conditioning system is divided into high-pressure and low-pressure lines. The high-pressure side includes the compressor output side, high-pressure lines, condenser, receiver-drier, and liquid lines; the low-pressure side includes the evaporator, accumulator, return lines, compressor input side, and compressor oil sump.
I noticed the car AC has cold air but weak airflow. A common cause is a dirty cabin air filter that's clogged—when full of dust, it's like trying to breathe through a stuffed mask. Once when I opened the glove compartment to check the blower fan, I found leaves and tissue debris stuck in the blades. Also, an iced-up evaporator can block airflow, especially when running at very low temperatures in high humidity. In some older cars, a faulty blower motor resistor results in only a light breeze even at max speed. Don't forget to check the air blend door control cable—I've seen cases where it came unhooked, preventing the flap from fully opening. I'd recommend starting with replacing the filter; a $20 fix can solve most issues.
