It’s Air Conditioning Season Again

By Brian Klaubert

I’m sure you are as excited as I am about the return of Spring weather. The cold, the rain, and the overcast skies are making way for warm weather and bright sunny days. While this winter wasn’t as cold as some, it also didn’t contain as many warm spells as many. I am grateful for the beautiful weekends we have had lately.

With the return of warm weather, some of us are going to discover that the car’s air conditioning system isn’t blowing cold air like it used to. The most likely cause of this is a leak in the air conditioning system. Freon is the gas that does all of the work in making cold air. Freon does not wear out or loose its efficiency. If you aren’t getting cold air, you probably have a Freon leak.

Most cars will enjoy 5-6 years without any air conditioning problems at all. There used to be cars with chronic air conditioning problems, but manufacturers have improved designs to the point where most cars are experiencing this duration of problem free operation.

After this period, there are several areas where problems can arise. The first area usually to experience a problem is the air conditioning compressor. This is the only moving part in the system. This is also the point of highest pressure. Replacing the compressor is generally about $1,000 in total repair – whether it is on a Cavalier or a Cadillac. The present value of the car has no bearing on the cost to repair it, only the wisdom in repairing it.

The next thing to keep in mind is that there are many areas that can develop a leak. Repairing one problem does not mean that you will never have to worry about the air conditioning again. Think of it as a garden hose that has lain out across the back yard for 6 years. The entire hose has been exposed to the water pressure and the elements for this time. If the hose develops a leak in one spot, and you repair that spot, it remains likely that another spot will also develop a leak.

With this in mind, it still does not mean you should replace the entire system at once. That would cost around $3000. It is not likely that the entire system will require replacement. Replace the known problem. Let time determine if you will have another problem or not, and where it may arise.

One new item for this year, the manufacturer of Freon has increased the price of automotive Freon by 400%. Expect to pay a little more for Freon this season. The quantity that repair shops can buy is being limited, but somehow I expect there will be “just enough” to go around.

Lastly, do not feel guilt that you have done nothing to “maintain” your air conditioner. There is no preventative maintenance to be done. It is a sealed system. It is only wear or deterioration that causes a problem. Enjoy the cold air as long as it lasts!

Brian Klaubert owns Christian Brothers Automotive – Hamilton Mill on Braselton Hwy in Dacula, winner of “Best of Gwinnett” in both the Gwinnett Daily Post and Gwinnett Magazine.