Discover the Symptoms of an overcharged AC system

Learn the symptoms of an overcharged AC system

Overcharging your car’s air conditioning (A/C) system can lead to several significant issues, potentially damaging the system and affecting your vehicle’s performance. The A/C system relies on a precise amount of refrigerant to operate efficiently. An overcharged AC system won’t operate properly, and you can tell it is overcharged by the symptoms listed below. i

One of the most immediate effects of overcharging is decreased cooling efficiency. Instead of cooling the air, an overcharged system may blow warm air, defeating the purpose of the A/C. The excessive pressure can also cause the compressor to work harder than necessary, leading to premature wear or complete failure. The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace, making this a costly mistake.

Moreover, overcharging can cause refrigerant to leak, as the high pressure forces it out through seals and connections not designed to handle such stress. These leaks not only reduce the system’s efficiency but also harm the environment, as refrigerants are potent greenhouse gases.

To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s specifications for refrigerant levels and seek professional assistance if you’re unsure. Proper maintenance ensures your car’s A/C system runs smoothly, providing reliable cooling and extending its lifespan.

1. Warm air from the vents

An overcharged system floods the evaporator with liquid refrigerant, preventing it from turning into a vapor to remove heat from the cabin. So you don’t get cold air.

2. An overcharged AC system has extremely high pressures

The AC gauges show excessively high pressures on both the high and low sides.

3. An overcharged AC system causes leaks from seals and joints

The high pressure can cause weak points or old components to fail and start leaking. If you recently added too much refrigerant and now have leaks, overcharging is likely the cause.

4. Squealing Compressor

Too much refrigerant leads to extremely high pressures that make it very difficult for the compressor to start, causing the clutch or belt to squeal.

5. The compressor can be damaged from slugging

Normally only refrigerant vapor enters the compressor. But when overcharged, liquid refrigerant can enter, potentially causing a hydraulic lock and catastrophic compressor damage.

6. The Relief Valve Opens To Blow Off Excess Refrigerant

In cases of extreme overcharging, the pressure relief valve may open to release some refrigerant and prevent the system from bursting.

7. Reduced Fuel Economy

This is an example of extremely high pressure on the high side of the system.

The AC system has to work harder to overcome the high head pressures when overcharged, consuming more energy and resulting in lower fuel mileage than normal.

To avoid these issues, it’s essential to charge the AC system to the manufacturer’s recommended levels and ensure regular professional servicing. If you suspect your system might be overcharged, promptly address the issue to prevent further complications.

For more information on AC overcharging, see this video.

For more information on the most common causes of AC compressor failure, see this article.

©, 2023 Rick Muscoplat