The AC compressor of your Volvo is just one of the components exerting the best that it can to keep your car cool in spite of the extreme heat generated from the complex processes that your engine has to go through. The compressor plays one of the most important roles vitally needed by the unit to effectively and efficiently perform its duty. It is even considered as the heart of the system operated by a pump connected to the car’s engine. It is where the refrigerant gas enters to be compressed and transferred to other components.

After compression, the refrigerant gas passes through the condenser where the heat is dissipated. It is commonly positioned in front of the radiator although it may depend on the aerodynamic features of the vehicle. Cars with rear wheel drive systems can have much better airflow by using the cooling fan of the engine. Front wheel drive vehicles on the other hand can make use of any of the electric cooling fan. Free airflow is a must for the condenser to thoroughly disperse heat out of your driving machine. The heated compressed gas goes out of the condenser in a form of high pressure liquid.

As important as the compressor is the AC unit’s evaporator. It is the heat absorption unit in charge of several important functions such as taking the heat circulating inside the car out into the atmosphere and dehumidification of the air. It is the next entry point of the liquid which transforms the heat components to gas. The extreme pressure produced as the refrigerant enters the evaporator must be minimized to avoid freezing. It can be done by using pressure regulating devices to control the refrigerant pressure and flow. Commonly used are orifice tubes, receiver drier and thermal expansion valve. Evaporator units with orifice tubes utilize an accumulator directly tied up to the evaporator outlet. The accumulator serves as the “in between” of the evaporator and compressor. It prevents the liquid refrigerant from coming in contact with the compressor. The liquid refrigerant can cause damages on the compressor since it is only designed to handle and compress gas.

The components making up your air conditioner unit are interconnected with each other so defect in one component can spread to other parts. Thus it is a must to regularly inspect your air conditioning components. Damaged or faulty components must be repaired or replaced at once. Aftermarket and OEM replacements are readily offered in any auto part store including web based or on line stores.