Sitting here last week looking at 5 inches of snow and thinking about air conditioning seemed a little odd, but it Is May in Colorado and I guess we should expect anything. Maybe this is the year I can water ski and snow ski on the same day...
Regardless of what it looks like today, hot weather is just around the corner and we will soon be counting on our air conditioners to keep us comfortable. Temperatures are projected to be in the 80's by next Monday and the time to realize that your auto's air conditioner isn't performing up to snuff is before you need it the most.
This month's article explains how to keep your auto's air conditioning healthy.
By the way - if your auto's air conditioning is less than healthy - check out our coupon for our email customers to get great savings on an A/C Tune Up!
Today's auto air conditioners are reliable but also susceptible to damage if the refrigerant begins to leak out. The R134a refrigerant carries an oil mist through the system and lubricates the compressor. The most common problem we find is leaks from hoses or seals. The second most common problem is compressors damaged from lack of lubrication as a result of refrigerant leaking.
This can lead to a condition known as "Black Death" where the compressor grinds itself up and spews metal throughout the system necessitating the replacement of many parts.
The orifice tube filter picture is an example of the results of a failed compressor. Before the debris 
even gets to the filter, it has already spread itself through the high pressure side of the system causing between $1,000 to $2000 in damages.
What you should do to keep your A/C healthy:
- If it doesn't feel as cold as it should be, have it inspected for leaks.
- Do not us any sealers or stop leak. They don't work and can damage the recycle machines used to service AC systems.
- If you hear any grinding or squealing noises, turn off the AC and have it inspected right away.
- Do not let anyone just add refrigerant like from the little one pound cans the parts stores sell. Overfilling can cause damage.
- An Air Conditioner service (evacuate and recharge) should alwaysinclude addition of a fluorescent dye to detect small leaks.
When it comes to your air conditioner, it is surely better to pay attention to it and to maintain it than to repair it.
