How much do you know about air conditioning systems?

When a heatwave hits, it’s nice to be able to turn on your car’s air conditioning while driving, isn’t it? Do you know how this ingenious system works to make your car rides more comfortable? Test your knowledge by answering these questions.

1. When you turn on the air conditioner, how does the air inside the cabin cool down?
   a) The system stores the air in an insulated compartment and cools it with a fan
   b) The air passes through an evaporator that contains compressed and expanded gas
   c) The system forces the air through a high-speed duct to lower its temperature
2. Air conditioning systems in gasoline-powered cars differ from those in electric vehicles.
   a) True
   b) False
3. Which of the following is NOT a good maintenance practice for your air conditioning system?
   a) Clearing debris from the condenser grille at the front of the car to improve airflow
   b) Running the air conditioner occasionally in winter to protect its components
   c) Letting the fan run briefly after turning off the air conditioner and engine to prevent mould growth

Answers

1. b) First, the refrigerant gas passes through the compressor, where it becomes pressurized. It then moves to the condenser, where it cools and becomes a liquid. Next, the liquid refrigerant flows through the expansion valve, which releases the pressure. This sudden drop in pressure chills the refrigerant. Finally, the cold refrigerant travels through the evaporator. Air from the passenger compartment blows over the evaporator, cools down, and then flows back into the cabin.
2. a) True. Although both systems are similar, there’s one big difference. In gasoline-powered vehicles, the compressor is powered by energy from the engine. In electric vehicles, the compressor is powered by the battery. This allows the air conditioning system in an electric vehicle to operate even when the vehicle is turned off.
3. b) Although you may hear otherwise, you don’t need to run your air conditioner in winter. When you use the defrost function, the system already activates key components.