Your car or truck's AC system is under extreme pressure and the thermal expansion valve or orifice tube monitors the amount of pressure and the temperature of your A/C system. It calculates the precise amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator. A failing expansion valve or orifice tube often causes a vehicle's air conditioner to blow hot air.
Replace or Repair
- Expansion Valves: Too much refrigerant causes your evaporator to get too cold whereas too little refrigerant would result in inadequate cooling. The expansion valve is a complex valve that regulates refrigerant flow. This process of metering the refrigerant adjusts the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Talk to one of the pro mechanics at Familia Automotive, as this part can be replaced on its own and does not require the entire replacement of the AC assembly.
- Orifice Tubes: Unlike the expansion valve, the orifice tube is a simple fixed device with no moving parts. It therefore cannot vary the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, but rather causes a permanent restriction in the system. However, like the expansion valve the orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow through the system and filters debris which may come through in its screen. Often fixing a "bad orifice tube" requires replacing the entire evaporator assembly.
what our customers say
I was not referred here or heard anything about this place other than the reviews that were previously left. This place was fantastic. I took my daughter's 2000 RAV4 to Familia Automotive and that's exactly how they treated us, like family. The owner was great as well as the staff.. even though the problem was minor he thoroughly checked the car and sent a video via text as well text messages letting us know when it was ready along with a thorough phone call explaining everything he had found. It was well worth the time and money to visit familia automotive and it will be receiving our business moving forward along with any recommendations.
Went in for air conditioning issues. Before getting started, he explained to me what they were going to check for, possible issues & solutions. I was kept informed of everything. Broke down every step for me. When it came down to the repairs, he explained what was needed and why. Quick and thorough repairs. My AC even blows colder air than it did before the incident! Great customer service! Flexible to work around your schedule, which is a big plus. He even went out of his way to help and recommend simple solutions to other car issues that could be done at home. Very welcoming environment with good prices! Thank you!
