Why does the car air conditioner have airflow but not cool?
2 Answers
1. Lack of refrigerant: This leads to insufficient refrigerant in the air conditioning system pipelines, reduced pressure, and diminished heat absorption, resulting in the sensation that the air conditioner is only blowing air without cooling. In this case, observe through the sight glass on the dryer tank. During normal operation, if there are continuous, slow bubbles in the sight glass, it indicates insufficient refrigerant. If obvious bubble flipping occurs, it signifies a severe lack of refrigerant. 2. Excessive refrigerant: The proportion of refrigerant in the air conditioning system is strictly regulated. If the proportion is too high, it can affect heat dissipation. Similarly, adding too much cooling oil during maintenance can also reduce the heat dissipation efficiency of the refrigeration system. 3. Loose drive belt of the car air conditioner compressor: A loose belt can cause slippage during compressor operation, reducing transmission efficiency, lowering compressor speed, and decreasing the delivery of compressed refrigerant, leading to the air conditioner not cooling. If the compressor drive belt is too loose, it should be tightened. If it cannot be turned by hand, the belt is too tight and should be loosened slightly. Of course, if tightening is ineffective or the belt shows cracks, aging, or other damage, it should be replaced with a new one.
My auto repair experience tells me that if the car's AC is blowing air but not cooling, there's an 80% chance the refrigerant has leaked. The AC system is like the human circulatory system - refrigerant acts as the blood. If pipes age or get punctured by road debris, low pressure will cause the compressor to stop working. Last time I inspected a car, I found oil stains in the condenser fins - a classic leakage point. Also, don't underestimate the cabin air filter - when it's as dirty as a rag, it blocks airflow. If you hear the compressor clutch clicking but not engaging, it's likely voltage fluctuation or a loose belt. The worst case is expansion valve blockage, which requires dashboard removal for repair. I recommend checking pressure gauges first - if low pressure is below 20 Psi, it indicates refrigerant leakage. Fix the leak and recharge immediately before the compressor burns out and costs you big money.
