What is the problem when both high and low pressures of a car's air conditioning system are high?
3 Answers
When both the high and low pressures of a car's air conditioning system are equally high, there may be two possible causes: either the expansion valve is faulty or the compressor is not working. Touch the high-pressure pipe coming out of the compressor to see if it is hot. If it is not very hot, then the issue is likely with the compressor. Below is additional information: Daily maintenance methods for the compressor: Check whether the refrigerant is sufficient. This can be estimated by feeling the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet pipes of the dryer, or by using a manifold pressure gauge for detection. Regularly inspect the liquid level height of the air conditioning system's refrigerant to ensure it is normal. There are several methods to check the liquid level height, but the most common and simplest method is to use the sight glass on the dryer for inspection.
Oh no, my car's AC just won't cool properly. Last time both high and low pressures were too high - turned out the condenser was clogged with too much dust. I drove out for a countryside trip in the scorching heat, and the AC was blowing warm air - almost got heatstroke! Rushed to the repair shop for inspection. The mechanic said it might be the fan not spinning or dirty cooling fins causing poor airflow and pressure buildup. Overcharged refrigerant can also cause this - some shops add too much Freon. The mechanic recommended regular cleaning of the front grille and radiator, especially with frequent AC use in summer when dust accumulates easily. Leaving it unfixed could overload the compressor. After repairs, the cooling improved significantly - saved money and peace of mind. Usually, pay attention to the fan operation sound - address any abnormalities early.
As someone who often tinkers with cars, common reasons for both high and low pressure issues are cooling problems or overcharging the system. I once experienced a situation where the fan wasn't spinning, causing pressure to skyrocket and the compressor to vibrate. It's crucial to quickly check if the fan motor or belt is loose. A dirty condenser can also block cooling vents, which has a significant impact during hot summers. Overcharging refrigerant leads to high pressure, which can be easily checked with a gauge. Cleaning the condenser is simple—just use a soft brush to sweep the fan blades. Don't slack on regular maintenance; periodically check the refrigerant gauge. Air in the system can also cause high pressure, which can be resolved by purging during professional servicing. Safety first—a broken compressor is a real headache.
