Why Is There a Water Sound When the Car Air Conditioner Is On?
2 Answers
When you hear a water sound from the car air conditioner, it is usually caused by the condensation water from the air conditioner flowing out of the cabin through the hose. Check if the central air conditioner hose has come loose. If it hasn’t, the sound is likely due to the refrigerant flowing and evaporating inside the compressor, which is normal. Below are the functions of a car air conditioner: 1. Temperature Regulation: This is the primary function of a car air conditioner. In summer, the cooling system produces cold air to lower the cabin temperature; in winter, except for large commercial vehicles that use independent combustion heaters, most vehicles rely on residual heat for heating. 2. Humidity Regulation: Humidity significantly affects passenger comfort. Cabin humidity should generally be maintained between 30% and 70%. Standard car air conditioners do not regulate humidity; only advanced luxury cars equipped with integrated heating and cooling systems can adjust humidity. 3. Airflow Regulation: The speed and direction of airflow greatly impact comfort. If air blows directly, the speed should be limited within a certain range when the temperature is appropriate. The airflow speed can be adjusted based on passengers’ living environments, ages, health conditions, and temperature preferences. 4. Air Purification: Cabin air quality is crucial for comfort.
I used to encounter this issue quite often when repairing cars. The water sound when the AC is turned on is mainly caused by condensed water from the evaporator not being drained properly. When the evaporator cools, it condenses moisture from the air. This water is supposed to flow outside the car through a dedicated drain pipe, but if the pipe is clogged—say, by dust or leaves—the water accumulates in the chassis area. When you turn on the AC, you hear the water flowing or dripping. If left unattended for a long time, the water can seep into the car, causing the carpets to mold or electronic components to rust, which poses a short-circuit risk. If you drive a lot in the summer, it's recommended to flush the drain outlet with a hose when washing your car every quarter as a preventive measure. If the sound is loud and accompanied by a foul odor, it might indicate refrigerant leakage, and you should seek professional repair to avoid escalating the issue and unnecessary expenses. Generally, minor issues can be easily resolved with some DIY cleaning.
