Warning! In a car locked from the outside, no one should be left, especially young children, since the doors cannot be opened from the inside. This is especially important when operating vehicles with power windows, because in this case it is impossible to open the windows.
The air conditioning system is a potential hazard. Its maintenance requires compliance with certain rules. The air conditioning system must be serviced by technicians trained in safe work practices, using the proper equipment and following the rules for depressurization, collection and storage of automotive refrigerants.
The air conditioning system is under pressure, so do not open the cooling circuit of the air conditioning system until the refrigerant has been recovered.
Avoid skin contact with refrigerant.
Wear protective goggles when working near the air conditioning system.
If the refrigerant comes into contact with the skin or eyes, do not rub the affected area, immediately rinse with cold water for at least 15 minutes and consult a doctor. Self-medication is not allowed.
In a new cylinder, the refrigerant is stored under pressure.
Store the cylinder at a temperature not exceeding 50°C. Take measures to prevent the cylinder from falling from a height or other situations that could damage it.
Work should be carried out in a well-ventilated area. The refrigerant evaporates quickly, obstructing the access of oxygen and making breathing difficult.
The gaseous refrigerant is heavier than air and collects relatively quickly at the bottom, for example, in inspection ditches.
The refrigerant is not flammable, however, if the refrigerant comes into contact with flames or incandescent objects, poisonous gas is released. Keep refrigerant away from open flames. Do not smoke. When using a flame leak detector, avoid breathing smoke.
When welding near the air conditioning system, always draw off the refrigerant from it. Electric welding near refrigerant piping may cause the refrigerant to decompose due to ultraviolet radiation.
Do not expose parts of the air conditioning system to high temperatures or open flames. Overheating can lead to an increase in pressure in the system and depressurization.
Cleaning the condenser or evaporator with hot steam is not allowed, only cold water or compressed air should be used.
Fundamental differences in the properties of R-134a and R-12 refrigerants require different air conditioning systems for each type of refrigerant. Mixing R-134a and R-12 refrigerants, even in small quantities, is not allowed, as this will lead to failure of the air conditioning system. Mixing oils designed for different air conditioning systems also leads to failure of the air conditioning compressor. O-rings must be used that are specific to the refrigerant used, as R-134a refrigerant will destroy the R-12 refrigerant o-rings and the circuit will leak.
The air conditioning system is charged with R-134a refrigerant. The parts of the system are under high operating pressure of the refrigerant: at high ambient temperatures, this pressure can reach 50 bar. The source of increased danger when servicing the system by untrained technical personnel and when using equipment not designed for this purpose is the high pressure and chemical attack of the refrigerant.
In order for the air conditioning system to operate at maximum efficiency, do the following:
- Check the condition of the A/C compressor drive belt. Replace the belt if worn or damaged;
- check the tension of the air conditioning compressor drive belt and, if necessary, adjust it;
- check the condition of the pipes and hoses of the air conditioning system. If there are cracks, blisters, delaminations or loose connections leading to leaks, replace them;
- check the condition of the capacitor. If the outer surface of the condenser is contaminated with leaves and other debris, clean the condenser using a brush and compressed air;
- make sure that the refrigerant level in the air conditioning circuit is correct;
Pic. 4.31. Location of the drain tube of the casing of the evaporator of the air conditioning system
- If water noise is heard or water drips onto the carpeted floor, check the evaporator casing drain tube for cleanliness (pic. 4.31). If necessary, clean the drain tube with a soft wire.
To ensure trouble-free operation of the air conditioning system for a long period of operation, turn it on for at least 5–10 minutes at least once or twice a month. This is especially important during the winter months, as when the air temperature is below 0°C, the removal of condensate from the windows is accelerated.
One of the most common causes of an air conditioning system malfunction is a low level of refrigerant in the system.