Top tips on A/C servicing from DENSO

As we move towards warmer weather this spring DENSO is highlighting the benefits of regular and good servicing of air-conditioning systems. Vehicle manufacturers worldwide have come to rely on DENSO – the world’s number one in original thermal products – for efficient, reliable Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) components.

DENSO’s outstanding engineering knowledge is also reflected in its advanced, OE quality A/C programme for aftermarket customers; setting the international benchmark for technology and quality. The 100% OE quality of its replacement A/C Compressor and A/C Condenser ranges delivers an extremely low warranty ratio – providing peace of mind for stockists, installers and drivers alike.

Like any other system in the car, air-conditioning needs regular maintenance to ensure good performance and prevent expensive repairs. An air-conditioning system properly maintained and operated can easily last a vehicle’s life without any problem. Not only will the driver benefit from lower fuel consumption because the system does not operate at maximum capacity all the time, but there are significant environmental benefits because of lower exhaust gas and refrigerant emissions.

Of course, this means the system needs servicing every year. But what does a good service entail?

Peter Valek, Product Manager Product Manager DENSO Thermal Systems advises further:

“In DENSO’s opinion a thorough and efficient air-conditioning service should take between 45 minutes and one hour and include the following seven steps:

1. The first and most important step is to confirm operation and performance of the air conditioning system. When receiving the car from your customer always confirm whether there are any complaints or problems.

2. Identification of the refrigerant inside the system. ‘Drop in’ or imitation refrigerants can easily reduce performance and damage the system components, such as your compressor.

3. Identification of the quality of the refrigerant and oil.

4. Check if the vehicle is equipped with an interior filter and if this filter needs replacing.

5. Check for refrigerant leakage. There is no one perfect method for identifying leaks and best practice is the combination of two or three different methods.

6. Check the state of the system parts. Check if there is any damage, such as stone hitting or corrosion, which might give problems later and check whether the condenser or radiator surface is polluted with dirt.

7. Test air-conditioning system for proper operation. When checking the system operation, you not only test performance, but also check for noise, operation of condenser fan and air flow, air mixing (heating and cooling) and, bad smell in the interior when in a/c mode.

“As an expert in air-conditioning, we recognise that the significant investment needed to carry out effective service and repair is essential and costly,” continues Peter. “All your equipment needs maintenance and some calibration. Yes, this will cost money but will deliver a return on investment. It is estimated that no maintenance and calibration of tools and equipment results in approximately five percent of all air conditioning system failures. These type of failures are not covered under warranty by any of your suppliers and therefore end up on your own expense.”

DENSO’s A/C Compressor range

The 100% OE quality, replacement A/C Compressor range from DENSO includes:
Reciprocating type (swash plate type) and Rotary type (Vane Type and Scroll type) as well as an Electric compressor for hybrid vehicles (Scroll type).

Key benefits:

100% OE quality: guaranteed fit, right first time
Perfect match to vehicle specification: little need for technical support
Highest product quality: extremely low warranty ratio
All new-in-box: delivered as complete assemblies
Small, efficient compressors: including references suitable for cars in the compact class
Durable design: delivers low noise and high performance
Molybdene coated piston: protects the compressor from seizing during run-in
Triple lip seal (W-lip seal): ensures better sealing and reduces leakage
450 part numbers covering over 2,500 applications

Find out more
For further details on DENSO’s Thermal Systems aftermarket ranges including: Radiators, Cooling Fans, Heater Cores, Intercoolers, A/C Compressors, A/C Condensers and Cabin Blower Fans, please contact DENSO Europe B.V.’s Business Unit Aftermarket on +31 (0) 294 493 493.