Driving in the summer heat is not a problem when your A/C is operating as it should. However, if there’s an issue, it can impact not only the air blowing out of the vents but your vehicle engine’s well-being. A common concern among vehicle owners in hot weather is the vehicle overheating when the A/C is on, and it can indicate serious problems with your vehicle’s A/C system.
Discover why this occurs and find out about the causes in addition to solutions to keep your engine cool while the A/C is running.
Understanding A/C Overheating
When turning the air conditioning on, it cycles refrigerant through the A/C system, taking heat from the cabin then forces it into the environment. The A/C compressor is vital in this operation, and it’s spun by the A/C belt or serpentine belt, subject to your vehicle’s design. Under typical circumstances, there’s little to no impact on your engine’s temperature.
However, if the temperature gauge rises when the A/C is on, something is wrong. The issue can often be isolated by turning the A/C off and monitoring if the temperature starts to return to a more regular state.
You will usually find that this situation occurs:
- When the outside temperature is scorchingly hot
- The vehicle has not been adequately maintained
- There’s a malfunction of some sort
Understanding what happens with the engine when the A/C is on can be beneficial to finding out the cause of your overheating problem. The cooling fans that pull air through the radiator also pulls air through the A/C condenser, eliminating heat and expending it into the atmosphere.
How A/C Impacts Engine Temperature
It’s very probable that the issue is going to suddenly appear instead of slowly, gradually have a grow in temperature over days or weeks or heat.
When the A/C compressor is cycling, it increases load to the engine. The extra work the engine must carry out can produce additional heat, loading the cooling system as it’s directed to do more work. This typically appears as increased engine revs when the A/C clutch gets engaged, and the on-off sequence can add to increased temperatures when the cooling system is unable to maintain with the additional stress.
Potential Causes Of Overheating
When your vehicle overheats when the A/C is on, numerous culprits could be to blame. Here are the common problems to keep an eye on.
Low Coolant Levels
One of the most common reasons for overheating is a coolant system that doesn’t have enough fluid. It could be an indication of a leak or merely evaporation after a while. Without sufficient coolant to carry heat away, the engine is more vulnerable to overheating.
Failing Radiator Fans
Radiator fans play a vital role in retaining ideal engine temperature. Should they fail to switch on when required, such as when the A/C is on throughout a hot summer day, there’s little to circulate air through the radiator, despite the speed of the vehicle.
Clogged Cooling System
Radiators or coolant passageways that are blocked with corrosion, dirt, or debris can hinder the circulation of coolant, resulting in concentrated hot spots and ensuing overheating. It might be good enough to manage the heat produced without the A/C, but unable to keep up when the A/C is running.
Slipping Serpentine Belt
The serpentine belt powers the A/C compressor and other accessories and might also power the water pump. Should the serpentine belt be stretched, glazed, or not applying the proper tension, the added stress of running the A/C could mean the water pump doesn’t circulate coolant efficiently.
Tips To Prevent Overheating With A/C On
Preemptive action is usually best when it comes to your vehicle’s well-being. Routine vehicle maintenance can discover issues before they trigger a larger issue. Regularly examining and flushing the cooling system, guaranteeing proper fan operation, and looking for any leaks can keep your vehicle running effortlessly.
Using your A/C within reason can lessen the load on your engine. When you initially turn on your A/C, try having your windows down and the A/C fan on to cool the vehicle’s interior without activating the A/C compressor. In addition, avoid turning the A/C on and off continuously, which can add stress to the system.
Ascot Automotive Specialists In Flagstaff, AZ
Ascot Automotive offers an extensive array of auto repair solutions to address every issue your vehicle may encounter. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, our adept technicians possess the expertise to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Contact our experienced team today!
