Restoring Comfort with Darrell's Auto Service and Towing in Wallingford
If your car's air conditioning system isn't keeping you cool in the scorching weather, there's no need to endure discomfort. Come over to Darrell's Auto Service and Towing in Wallingford, where we'll swiftly restore your AC's performance. Reach out to us now at 203-626-9741 or drop by our shop at 722 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT.
Five Indicators Your Car's AC Needs Attention
- Your car's AC blows air only slightly cooler than the outside temperature.
- Unpleasant mildew and mold odors emanate from your AC vents.
- The AC functions only while the vehicle is in motion.
- Even at the highest fan setting, there's weak airflow.
- Water condenses or drips onto your foot while driving.
Don't delay! If your car's AC isn't operating at peak efficiency, a visit to Darrell's Auto Service and Towing is a wise move. Routine maintenance now can help you avoid more costly auto AC repairs later. Sometimes, resolving a malfunctioning air conditioner is as simple and cost-effective as replenishing the coolant.
Ensuring Optimal Performance for Your Vehicle's Cooling System
Most car and truck air conditioning systems eventually require attention due to wear and tear. Hoses supplying the AC unit can crack, clog, or develop leaks if neglected. Let us service your car or truck to keep your cooling system operating at its best. Dial 203-626-9741 to learn more about how we can restore your air conditioning.
Common Automotive AC Repair Services
Recharging Your Car's AC
If your vehicle's AC begins to lose its cooling efficiency, consider a freon recharge. This quick and cost-effective solution restores cool air, providing relief from the heat. Be aware that if there's a freon leak, it could be due to a damaged hose or seal, which might require more extensive repairs.
Repair Your Car's AC Compressor
The AC compressor is central to cooling your vehicle, performing several critical functions: it pressurizes the refrigerant to cool the air, regulates the temperature output, detects temperature changes, and channels air to the AC condenser.
Repair Your Car's AC Condenser
Located at the front of your vehicle, near the radiator, the AC condenser is crucial for cooling the refrigerant after compression. This component helps maintain a comfortable cabin temperature by converting the refrigerant into a cooled liquid that moves to the receiver/dryer or accumulator.
Repair Your Car's AC Evaporator
Situated just behind the dashboard, the evaporator is key to your car's air conditioning system. It cools and dehumidifies the air before it flows through the cabin, ensuring a comfortable environment inside your vehicle during the warmer months.
Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
The Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube is essential for regulating your AC system's pressure and temperature, controlling the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. Proper balance prevents moisture build-up, crucial for maintaining your vehicle's AC efficiency.
Freon Recharging FAQs
How often should Freon be changed?
Never, at least not in the way you think of your oil being changed. Your car's AC system is a sealed unit. No new Freon needs to be added unless there's a refrigerant leak. Over time as your vehicle ages small cracks may form in your AC system parts such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-dryer, expansion tube and connecting hoses allowing Freon to escape. If this occurs, you need to replace the failing part and have your Freon recharged.
How long should a Freon recharge last?
If your car's AC system was recently repaired and required a Freon recharge it should not need to be replaced again. Your AC system is a closed or sealed system that does not allow Freon to escape. Freon is not like gasoline; it does not get depleted. If Freon is escaping after your car's AC system has been repaired, then additional work may need to be done to find the leak.
How many cans of Freon does a car take?
Don't guesstimate your car's refrigerant needs! Most use 28-32 ounces (2-3 12oz cans), but larger vehicles and rear A/C can be different. Check your manual for the exact amount to avoid overfilling.
Can I leave my car running when adding Freon?
It is advised to have your engine running while recharging your car's A/C system. This is essential as the A/C compressor, powered by the engine, must be active to facilitate proper refrigerant circulation and ensure an effective recharge.
Why is my car blowing hot air after adding Freon?
A refrigerant leak can lead to a loss of pressure in the AC system, resulting in a failure to produce cold air. This is frequently the primary reason a recharge may prove ineffective. It is crucial to inspect the system for leaks and address any issues before proceeding with a recharge.
Schedule your auto AC repair appointment with Darrell's Auto Service and Towing today! Our expert technicians are equipped to swiftly diagnose and resolve all your air conditioning issues.
To learn more about our AC repair services, call us at 203-626-9741 or request a quote by clicking below:
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Discover More About AC Repair Services At Darrell's Auto Service and Towing in Wallingford
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Car & Truck Care Services
Brake Repair
what our customers say
My car was in the shop and I borrowed my mother's. It died on the highway and Geico was able to get me a tow much sooner than AAA. The driver arrived exactly when he told me he would, and was a very capable, nice, pleasant young man. Cody got into the car, which due to the mechanical issue, locked with the keys inside it and was very empathetic when I explained my issue of PTSD on highways, the result of an accident. He drove carefully, was a good conversationalist and was careful to check my taste in music. I would absolutely recommend this company. They were quick, efficient and have an excellent staff. Thank you!
I had a really good experience, I would highly recommend anyone to use this company. My car was towed with great care, my lower ball joint were broken and I was concerned that they wouldn't be able to put the car on the tow truck. But Luis reassured me that it will be ok and was very polite. He treated my car like it was his.
I've been using Darrell's for 5+ years now. I wish I found them sooner! They're the best Auto Repair shop I've ever dealt with. They're reliable, trustworthy, VERY knowledgeable, and the entire crew are just "good people". They care about their customers and take an extreme amount of pride in what they do. Whether it's routine maintenance, or issues with your vehicle, you can absolutely TRUST they will do a great job. I have 3 children, with a couple older vehicles in the mix and they always make sure they're safe and road ready. For my newer vehicle, I'd been using a dealer for quite some time. After first going to Darrell's through a neighbor's recommendation, I found out the dealer wasn't providing nearly the same level of service that Darrell's does. They go above and beyond to make sure your vehicle is in the best shape possible. Thanks to Darrell, Chris, Leon, Lori and the entire crew!
I want to give a shout-out to Brian who towed my car last night during torrential rain. He was very kind and somehow got me in and out of the tow truck safely. I am almost 72, so this was not an easy feat. He also went beyond the call of duty and put my garbage bin and recyclable bin out near the road for pickup today. I can't thank him enough. And thank you for your service in the Navy.