The AC on my brother's Acura just went out at only 100k miles and t got me thinking. Is there any yearly maintenance that should be done to the AC system? For instance, checking the pressure? Since the lubricant is in the freon, a leak would cause a lack of lubrication and eventually compressor failure correct? Can you gauge how well the AC is working by checking the temperature against ambient temps?

 

The best way to maintain your a/c system is to cycle it once a week to circulate the oil. No need to check the pressure (you'll just release freon). IIRC (haven't worked on A/C systems in a while), a 40 degree drop from ambient is what you should look for (this is air coming out of your vents, not in cab air).

 

Good to know! I never use my ac!!! Ever....

 

When you turn your heater on, use the a/c. It doesn't have to be for the whole time, but 10 minutes will suffice.

 

The computer monitors system pressure. When it drops, it will cut power to the compressor clutch.

Here is the performance data from the factory service manual:

Ambient Temperature..... Air Temperature at Center Panel Outlet
21° C (70° F).................... 6 -15° C (42 - 59° F)
27° C (80° F).....................7 -18° C (45 - 64° F)
32° C (90° F).....................9 - 21° C (48 - 69° F)
38° C (100° F)...................11 - 22° C (52 - 72° F)
43° C (110° F)...................13 - 24° C (56 - 75° F)