Why your car air-con is blowing hot air instead of cold air

Nothing ruins a road journey faster than the air-conditioner in your car blowing hot air on a scorching afternoon in the Philippines. Understanding the root causes can save you a sweaty ride and the precious pesos in your wallet. Let’s cover the usual culprits and possible solutions for this problem.

1. Refrigerant level is low

Your car's all-important air-con system relies on refrigerant to cool the air. A leak in the system could cause the refrigerant level to drop, which would turn your cooling dreams into a frustrating nightmare. Get it topped up, or better still, have it inspected!

2. Compressor issues

The compressor is the heart of your air-conditioning system. If it’s malfunctioning, the refrigerant won’t circulate properly. A bad compressor might need repair or replacement.

3. Clogged air filter

A dirty air filter blocks the airflow, leading to poor cooling performance. Check and replace your air filter regularly to keep your car’s A/C running smoothly.

4. Faulty cooling fan

The cooling fan dissipates heat from the refrigerant. If it is damaged, the refrigerant stays hot, and so does the air piped into your cabin.

5. Electrical problems

Wiring issues or blown fuses could cause a breakdown in the air-con system. These need to be diagnosed and fixed by a professional.

Read More: 5 signs that your car battery is failing