Air Conditioning

Why is it important?

Most vehicles operate at very high engine temperatures and it is critical that your operating temperature remain within manufacturers' requirements. Onboard computer systems can be shut down if you are not within the specified temperature range. Your thermostat regulates the engine temperature as the water pump pushes the coolant throughout the engine. This same coolant passes through a heater box, which is where you get your warm air to heat the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Belts and hoses should be checked periodically for cracks, swelling and hardening. Engine coolant and antifreeze are basically one in the same.

When should you change antifreeze?

For "ordinary" antifreeze, the vehicle manufacturers generally recommend coolant changes every two to three years or 30,000 miles. Others say it's not a bad idea to change the coolant every year for maximum corrosion protection- especially in vehicles that have aluminum heads, blocks or radiators. But such recommendations may soon be obsolete. Several antifreeze suppliers have introduced "long life" antifreeze formulations that provide protection for four years or 50,000 miles.

Heating & Cooling Air Conditioning Testing and Flushing

One way to find out if it's time to change the antifreeze is to test it. The concentration of antifreeze in the coolant should be checked prior to the onset of cold weather. A 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water is recommended and will protect against freezing down to -34° F and boil over protection to 263° F in most vehicles. Reverse flushing is the best way to change the coolant because draining alone can leave as much as 30% to 50% of the old coolant in the engine block. Reverse flushing also helps dislodge deposits and scale, which can interfere with good heater performance.

Eco-Friendly Advances

Most air conditioning systems are now equipped with a new more environmentally friendly coolant called R134a. This new coolant can be used in most older cars that were originally built with R12 Freon, provided that a retrofit service is performed on the vehicle. Once retrofitted, you will be able to have you're A/C system maintained for many years to come.

Leak Detection

Even though the refrigerant types have changed, your basic system operation has remained the same. The A/C compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, which passes through condensers, receiver dryers and evaporators, to cool the air travelling into your engine compartment. Gradual system leaks do develop over time; however, leak detection testing is available. We offer the following heating and cooling system services:

  • Check entire heating system to prevent overheating. Replace thermostat, water pump or belts and hoses as needed. Test engine coolant to determine your current level of protection.
  • Pressure test system to check for leaks, both internal and external.
  • Inspect belts and hoses for swelling, cracking or hardening from age or engine compartment temperatures and replace as needed.

We offer the following air conditioning system services:

  • A/C system leak test.
  • Component performance evaluation.
  • Check belts, hoses and pressurized connections.
  • Test in-car temperature at outlets.
  • Test and determine A/C system condition.
  • Estimate repairs or needed services.