Signs & Symptoms of an Overcharged AC

Car AC systems are sometimes overcharged during normal maintenance.

An overcharged air conditioner system is never good for your AC. It can result in expensive damage which requires repairs to fix and might end up costly in the end. Noticing the signs and symptoms of an overcharged AC will prevent the worst damage and allow fixing the system faster.

Inefficient Cooling

The most obvious sign of an overcharged AC system is poor cooling. The air is often warmer than normal, even when set to the coolest temperatures, and the system might shut off to prevent further cooling. It might still blow relatively cool air, but the air will not get cold.

Compressor Noise

The compressor might make excessive noise. This is a symptom that is possible, but does not always occur. Some AC systems might not have extra noise.

High Pressure Readings

An overcharged AC will show higher than normal pressure and temperature readings. The compressor works harder to try balancing out the system, which results in more pressure. The higher the pressure, the higher the temperatures rise as a result. When looking at the system pressure, the readings end up in the high range.

Compressor Life Shortened

An overcharged AC will result in damage to the compressor in the system. This means the life of the compressor is dramatically shortened when compared to a properly charged AC. The liquid from the overcharged AC leaks so the compressor gets backed up and damage starts.

References

• The Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating News
• AGCO Automotive: Questions
• ASA Shop: AC Repair and Maintenance
• AGCO Automotive: Wasting Thousands on AC Repair