During the summer months, the temperature inside of a vehicle sitting in the sun can easily reach 130° or more. Keeping you and your passengers comfortable during the hottest weather is the job of your automobile's air conditioning system.

The air conditioning system works by removing the heat from air inside your vehicle and transferring that heat to the outside air. What is left when the heat and humidity have been removed is cooler, more comfortable air.

To remove the heat, the system relies on several key components including a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, pressurized refrigerant, valves and hoses—all controlled electronically.

For this system to work correctly and be ready for the hot weather, it needs to be free from leaks so that the refrigerant stays in the system. Although A/C systems are resistant to leaks and contamination, they are not leak-proof. Over time, contamination or leaks can appear and affect the cooling performance of your A/C system.

In fact, the most common cause of inadequate cooling is when the refrigerant leaks through worn seals and o-rings, loose fittings and connections. To make sure all the parts and components of your A/C system are working properly, we recommend having your A/C system checked at the beginning of the warm season.

Your auto care advisor can recommend an A/C Performance Check to test for any worn hoses or seals, leaks or contamination and to make sure your vehicle is ready for the warm weather.

It is important to note that some refrigerants used in automotive A/C systems are considered harmful to the environment. At Crossroads Expert Auto Service, we take great care to protect the environment while we are servicing the system.

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