The Five Major Parts Of Your

Car’s A/C System

OBJECTIVES

At the end of the lesson, the student must be able to

 Identify the components of a cars A/C system.

 Describe in detail the function of each component.
 Locate each component in a working system.

1. COMPRESSOR

The most essential component of any air conditioning system is the compressor. Your
nice, cool air depends on it! The four main functions that your vehicle’s compressor
carries out include:

 Pressurizing the refrigerant to cool the air

 Sensing temperature changes inside and outside your car
 Monitoring and controlling temperature output
 Moving air to the condenser

2. CONDENSER

Your vehicle’s A/C condenser is usually located in the front of the radiator, giving it the
nickname of the mini-radiator. When the compressor is pressurizing the refrigerant, the
condenser works to reduce the temperature and pressure of hot gasses coming from
the refrigerant. In addition, the condenser is also responsible for moving the cooled
liquid refrigerant to the receiver/dryer or accumulator.

3. RECEIVER/DRYER OR ACCUMULATOR

Whether or not you have receiver/dryer or accumulator depends on the model of your
vehicle. A receiver/dryer is present in vehicles that have a thermal expansion valve. An
accumulator, on the other hand, is found in vehicles that have an orifice tube.
The receiver/dryer works to separate gas from liquid. The compressor can be ruined if
any liquid gets in. That’s because a compressor isn’t designed for liquids, just gasses. This
part also takes out moisture using a desiccant. Desiccants can be compared to the small,
bead-filled packet you find in packaging for new electronics. Finally, there are also filters
that protect the A/C system from contaminants.

The accumulator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the amount of refrigerant
that goes into the evaporator. It also stores excess refrigerant, filters debris and removes
moisture.

4. THERMAL EXPANSION VALVE OR ORIFICE TUBE

As stated previously, cars with a thermal expansion valve utilize a receiver/dryer while a
vehicle with an orifice tube utilizes an accumulator. Regardless, the Thermal Expansion
Valve or Orifice Tube should be located between the condenser and evaporator.
Together, they monitor the amount of pressure and temperature of your A/C system and
calculate the exact amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator.

5. EVAPORATOR

Another part that’s crucial if you want cold, refreshing air hitting your face is the
evaporator. You’ll find this component right behind the dashboard. It’s in charge of
cooling the air with the refrigerant before it is blown into the cabin of your vehicle.