How Car Air Conditioning Works

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Air Con - The Basics

What Is Air Conditioning?

a vehicle black dashboard complete with air conditioning control dials close up

Air conditioning systems cool flowing air by removing the heat and in some cases moisture. Its how we keep our car’s air cool in summer and fresh in winter.

Your Air-Con Costs You MPG

This process uses fuel due to the load on the vehicles engine as a result of powering the pump and compressor.

Air Con’s 5 Components
  • Condenser
  • Compressor
  • Expansions Valve
  • Evaporator
  • Drier

How Air Conditioning Works

It’s Really Cool

illustration showing the five main stages for air conditioning to function which are condense compress expand evaporate dry
What The Components Do

Modern car & van air conditioning systems use a compressor to compress a refrigerant gas and a pump to move the gas through the air conditioning pipes.

The Problem With The System

Over time the gas gradually escapes resulting in no cold air from the car’s interior vents. This is why your car’s air conditioning system needs re gassing.

Did You Know?
  • Over 85% of cars are now fitted with air conditioning and climate control systems as standard.
  • Not everyone realises that their car air conditioning system needs regular servicing and re-gassing to make sure it operates efficiently.
  • Manufacturers recommend getting your air conditioning re-gassed or re-charged every 2 years
  • You should use your air con even through winter months in conjunction with your heater to help keep maintenance down, a system clean from bacteria build up and a cabin with fresh, clean warm air.
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