Why does the car air conditioner cool slowly after being exposed to the sun?
3 Answers
The reason why the air conditioner does not cool after being exposed to the sun is that the compressor protection device trips. The following are the specific reasons for the air conditioner not cooling: 1. External aspects: Too much refrigerant, appropriately reduce the amount of refrigerant. Poor heat dissipation, check if there is dust on the condenser pipe, and clean the condenser. The pipeline system is blocked, refer to the pressure gauge to judge and eliminate, and re-system treatment. The evaporator or filter screen is dusty and scaled, the airflow becomes smaller, the system pressure and temperature are unbalanced, clean the evaporator or filter screen. Lack of fluorine, when fluorine is lacking, the compressor exhaust temperature will overheat, causing the overload protection switch to trip. 2. Circuit aspects: Control circuit board failure. The temperature sensor is overloaded and the information is wrong. The power wiring is loose and the contact is poor. The starting capacitor or compressor starting coil is burned out.
I've been driving for many years and have encountered countless times the issue of slow air conditioning cooling after the car has been exposed to the sun in summer. Last time, after parking outdoors for an afternoon, the car was as hot as a steamer, and it took several minutes after turning on the AC before feeling cool. I think the main reason is that the intense sunlight heats up the cabin temperature too high, and the AC system has to work hard to combat this heat before it can cool down. I suggest opening the windows for ventilation for a minute or two before getting in the car to let the hot air out, then closing the windows and turning on the AC with the fan speed set to maximum. If it's always this slow, it might be due to a clogged air filter affecting airflow, which can be easily resolved by removing, cleaning, or replacing it. Insufficient refrigerant can also lead to low efficiency, but testing and refilling should be done by a professional shop. The condenser can easily get covered with dirt, affecting heat dissipation; regular cleaning with a soft brush and water can improve efficiency. It's normal for the AC to be a bit slow after being in the sun, but if it's not cooling after ten minutes, you should be alert to potential system issues and get it checked promptly to avoid affecting driving comfort.
As a hands-on car owner, I'm accustomed to troubleshooting when the A/C cools slowly after being exposed to intense sunlight. I've noticed that when the cabin is filled with hot air, the A/C has to work extra hard and struggles to lower the temperature. Quickly opening the windows for a minute or two before starting the A/C helps it cool faster. If it's still slow, I check if the filter is dirty or clogged—clearing it improves airflow. Unusual fan noises may indicate motor issues; if slow cooling is accompanied by strange sounds, the compressor or belt wear could be the culprit. I inspect the condenser for dirt buildup, which reduces cooling efficiency. A faulty expansion valve often causes slow cooling, but repairs require professional expertise. Using sunshades or parking in a garage can prevent overheating. Quarterly maintenance, including cleaning the A/C system and ensuring proper refrigerant levels, is essential. Tools and spare parts are affordable, and DIY repairs can be fun, but electrical checks require caution to avoid shock risks. Addressing issues promptly ensures a refreshing summer drive.
