Today we completed an extensive Subaru Impreza AC System repair…

The Subaru Impreza came into us because the air conditioning wasn’t working. After pressure testing the system and inspecting for leaks we discovered that there were multiple issues in the AC System, we found that we needed to replace the Compressor, Condensor, Evaporator, TX Valve. A pretty extensive repair! Here’s a break down of the different components we replaced in this system.

Compressor

First, we replaced the compressor, this is the workhorse of the air conditioning system, powered by a drive belt connected to the crankshaft of the engine. When the aircon system is turned on, the compressor pumps refrigerant vapour under high pressure to the condenser.

Condenser

We then replaced the condenser, the condenser is a device used to change the high-pressure refrigerant vapour to a liquid. It is mounted in front of the engine’s radiator, and it looks very similar to a radiator. The vapour is condensed to a liquid because of the high pressure that is driving it in, and this generates a great deal of heat. The heat is then in turn removed from the condenser by air flowing through the condenser on the outside.

Evaporator

Next, we replaced the evaporator, another device that looks similar to a car radiator. It has tubes and fins and is usually mounted inside the passenger compartment behind the fascia above the footwell. As the cold low-pressure refrigerant is passed into the evaporator, it vaporises and absorbs heat from the air in the passenger compartment. The blower fan inside the passenger compartment pushes air over the outside of the evaporator, so cold air is circulated inside the car. On the ‘air-side’ of the evaporator, the moisture in the air is reduced, and the ‘condensate’ is collected and drained away.

TX Valve

Last we installed a brand new TX valve, the high-pressure refrigerant flows from the Accumulator to the TX valve. This valve depressurizes the liquid refrigerant so that it can expand and become refrigerant vapour in the evaporator. The TX valve is an amazing little contraption, a lot of people underestimate the importance of your TX valve.

Once we replaced the compressor, condenser, evaporator, TX valve we completed an AC Service which includes a re-gas with R134A gas and UV dye. Now the Subaru Impreza has icy cold air conditioning for summer!

Have you noticed that your AC isn’t getting as cold as it used to? As the Sunshine Coast’s Largest Auto Electricians, we carry a large range of stock so that we can usually offer same day service and repairs on your air conditioner. Come in and see Accelerate Auto Electrics on the Sunshine Coast or contact us here!