The AC systems found on vehicles today are highly sophisticated. Generally, they operate using high and low pressures. One side of the AC system is low pressure, where the refrigerant starts out as a gas; and the other is a high pressure, where it is converted into liquid form so that it can flow through the system. Both sides of the system work together to keep refrigerant flowing so that the system can function properly. It is the job of the AC high pressure hose to carry the refrigerant from the compressor outlet to the receiver/drier so that it can be cooled and used to produce cold air.
The high-pressure hose is subject to high levels of stress. It can fail and cause problems for the rest of the system. When the AC high pressure hose is beginning to have trouble, can be spotted by the following 3 signs:
1. Noticeable physical damage on the hose
One of the first symptoms that one can look for when a high-pressure hose is beginning to fail is noticeable physical damage. Because the high-pressure hose is located in the engine bay (which sometimes can be a tight fit) the hose can sometimes become damaged from rubbing up against moving engine components or from heat radiating off the engine. Any abrasions, loose threads, or signs of tearing anywhere on the hose will indicate that it has sustained damage and needs to be replaced.
2. Leaking around the hose
Because the refrigerant flowing through the hose is under very high pressure, it is not uncommon for the hoses to eventually develop leaks in their service life. A hose that has begun to leak can quickly empty the system of refrigerant, which will leave the AC system unable to produce cold air. A leak will display visual clues, such as noticeable traces of refrigerant dripping or leaking from the hose, or along the fittings.
3. AC not cooling
And the very noticeable symptom that your AC high pressure hose has failed is the AC system not being able to produce any cold air.
Because the AC high pressure hose plays such a vital role to the proper operation of an AC system, any problems with it can quickly translate to the rest of the system. If you suspect that your AC high pressure hose is failing or is defective, have it diagnosed by a professional technician. If necessary, they will be able to replace your AC high pressure hose so that the AC system can continue to operate properly.
We have a series of videos on Youtube on how to Repair an Air Conditioning Hose Assembly.
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