The experts at Christian Brothers Automotive Granbury are here today to break down the five parts that make up your car’s A/C system and what they do.

1. Compressor

The compressor is the most crucial part of any air conditioning system.
If you want to stay cool, a working compressor is essential. The compressor has four main functions:

• Pressurizes the refrigerant to cool the air
• Senses temperature changes inside and outside your car
• Monitors and controls temperature output
• Moves the air to the condenser

2. Condenser

Usually found in front of your radiator, your A/C’s condenser is sometimes referred to as a mini-radiator. While the compressor is pressurizing the refrigerant, the condenser reduces the temperature and pressure of the hot gasses from the refrigerant. The condenser also moves the cooled liquid refrigerant to the receiver/dryer or accumulator.

3. Receiver/Dryer or Accumulator

Depending on the model of your vehicle, you will have a receiver/dryer or accumulator. You will find a receiver/dryer on vehicles that have a thermal expansion valve. An accumulator will be found in vehicles that have an orifice tube.The receiver/dryer separates gas from liquid. If liquid gets in your compressor, it can be destroyed. Compressors aren’t designed for liquids, only gasses. This part also removes moisture using a desiccant. Desiccants are similar to the small, bead-filled packet you find in packaging for new electronics. Last but not least, it has filters that protect the A/C system from contaminants.The accumulator monitors and controls the amount of refrigerant that enters the evaporator. It also stores excess refrigerant, filters debris and removes moisture.

4. Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube

As we mentioned in the previous section, cars with a thermal expansion valve use a receiver/dryer whereas, a vehicle with an orifice tube uses an accumulator.Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube will be located between the condenser and evaporator. These parts monitor the pressure and temperature of your A/C system and determine the exact amount of refrigerant that can safely enter the evaporator.

5. Evaporator

If cold, refreshing air is hitting your face, your evaporator is working like a champ. It’s located right behind the dashboard and is responsible for cooling the air with the refrigerant before blowing it into the cabin of your vehicle.
While your A/C system also consists of hoses and refrigerant charging ports, the 5 parts listed above do the important work. If you think your car’s air conditioning just isn’t what it used to be, visit your local auto repair experts at Christian Brothers Automotive in Granbury, Texas. We’ll get the cold air blowing and show you the nice difference in auto repair.