Condenser vs. Evaporator: The Core Difference
These are the primary heat exchangers in your car's AC system. The Condenser sits near the radiator (at the front of the car) and is responsible for cooling the high-pressure refrigerant back into a liquid state. It is highly susceptible to physical damage from road debris and corrosion.
The Evaporator is located inside the vehicle's dashboard. This is where the refrigerant turns into a low-pressure gas, absorbing heat and cooling the air that is blown into the cabin. Evaporators commonly fail due to internal corrosion from moisture or clogging, leading to weak cooling and often musty smells.
Leaks in either component will cause your refrigerant levels to drop, eventually resulting in total AC failure. Our Pretoria workshop specialises in pinpointing the location of these leaks quickly.
Our Repair and Replacement Solutions
Depending on the type of damage, we provide tailored repair or replacement:
- Condenser Replacement: If the damage (e.g., from a stone chip or accident) is too great for repair, we replace the condenser to restore the system's ability to shed heat effectively. We also check the condenser cooling fan for proper operation.
- Evaporator Replacement: Due to its location inside the dashboard, evaporator replacement is one of the most labour-intensive AC jobs, often requiring significant disassembly of the vehicle's interior. We guarantee professional, careful replacement to ensure a perfect seal and restore cooling.
- Full System Service: After any major component replacement, the entire AC system is flushed to remove contaminants, followed by a leak test and accurate regas with fresh oil and refrigerant.
If you suspect a leak from the front of your car or weak cooling coupled with a musty odour, contact our Pretoria AC repair experts immediately for a diagnostic check.