Why does my AC blow cold on one side and hot on the other?

Why does my AC blow cold on one side and hot on the other?

Due to the design of dual AC systems, low refrigerant is the leading cause of drastic temperature difference from one side of the dash to the other. In most cases after the proper charge of Freon is in the car, the temp will blow equally as cold like it should on BOTH sides!

How do you test an AC expansion valve?

How to Test an AC Expansion Valve

1. Make sure the AC unit is plugged in or, if it is in an automobile, turn the vehicle on.
2. Use the manual to locate the thermostatic expansion valve.
3. Lift the sensing bulb from the suction bulb well.
4. Hold the sensing bulb in your hands for two minutes or place it in warm water.

How long does an expansion valve last?

There isn’t a specific lifespan of the valve, it’s more just a wear and tear kind of situation. Obviously the more you use the air conditioning, the quicker it will wear down. Here’s a look at some of the signs you can watch for that can signal the end of your expansion valve’s lifespan.

How long does it take to change an expansion valve?

If the valve is all mechanical fittings (no brazing) it should take about 15 minutes, plus the pump down, pressure test,vacuum and recharge. I have changed at least a hundred expansion valves and have never had to pull the coil.

How do you diagnose a bad Txv valve?

Check the evaporator coil and remove the TXV’s sensing bulb from the suction line. Check the subcooling, superheat and pressures again. If there’s no change, that’s a further indication of a TXV problem. Another test is to put the sensing bulb in ice water and checking the pressures superheat, and subcooling again.

How do you unstick an expansion valve?

Opening of the valve should be relatively quick. Even holding he bulb in your hand should provide enough heat to open the valve. Next, place the TXV bulb into cold water. This should cause the expansion valve to close reducing the amount of refrigerant to pass thought the TXV into the coil.

What happens if expansion valve is stuck open?

What happens if expansion valve is stuck open? If the expansion valve is stuck open or clogged, the AC system won’t cool properly. A clogged valve leads to insufficient refrigerant, increasing the pressure in the system and causing the AC compressor to overheat.

Can you fix an AC expansion valve?

AC expansion valves regulate the flow of refrigerant through the AC system and if the valves fails they can cause problems with the whole system. Replacing an expansion valve requires special equipment and there are a number of laws regarding handling refrigerants.

Can you test an expansion valve?

You need to raise the temperature of the sensing bulb to determine if the expansion valve is activating. One easy way is to simply drop it in a cup of warm water. Otherwise, you can simply hold the bulb in your hand throughout the duration of the test.

How much does it cost to fix an AC expansion valve?

The average cost for air conditioning expansion valve replacement is between $267 and $308. Labor costs are estimated between $158 and $199 while parts are priced at $110. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can a AC expansion valve leak?

One way the expansion valve could get clogged is if there was a leak in the system where it was open to the atmosphere and contamination entered the system that way. These leak stop products can often clog your expansion valve as well rendering your system inoperable.