Symptoms of a Defective or Failed AC Battery

Common signs that you need to have your AC battery repaired include rattling sounds during operation, noticeable refrigerant leaks, and moldy smells.

Modern air conditioning systems are made up of several components that together provide cool air to the interior of the vehicle. One such component is the battery, also commonly referred to as the receiver/dryer. The AC battery is a metal container that acts as a filter for the AC system. It is filled with a desiccant, a moisture-absorbing material. Its purpose is to filter out any debris that may be passing through the AC system and eliminate any moisture that may be present in the system. Any foreign matter or moisture pumped through the system can cause damage that can lead to corrosion, which can lead to more serious problems such as leaks. This is why batteries are used in virtually every AC system as they protect the system from such potential problems.

When an AC battery starts to fail, it will usually display several warning signs. By keeping these signs in mind so that necessary repairs can be made, you can ensure that your AC system stays clean, free of moisture, and functions properly.

1. Chattering sounds during operation

One of the first signs that a battery has failed is a rattling sound when the AC power is turned on. Batteries contain cameras inside and a rattling sound may indicate internal damage to the battery, possibly due to corrosion. A rattling sound can also indicate that a fitting or hose has come loose or has been damaged, which is a more serious problem.

2. Noticeable refrigerant leaks

Another more obvious and more serious sign of a bad battery is a visible refrigerant leak. When a battery fails and starts leaking, it will cause coolant pools to form under the car or in the engine bay if the leak is significant enough. If the problem is not corrected in a timely manner, the refrigerant will eventually completely leak out of the system, which will completely disable the air conditioner before refueling.

3. Musty smell when turning on the air conditioner

Another sign that the battery has failed is the smell of mold when the air conditioner is turned on. If the battery is damaged in any way or is no longer filtering moisture out of the system, the resulting moisture can lead to mold and mildew in the air conditioning system, causing odors.

Since this component is essentially a filter that keeps the entire system free from contamination, it is important to replace or repair the AC battery as soon as any problems are found. If you suspect you may have a problem with the AC battery, or perhaps something else in the AC system, a professional technician from AvtoTachki for example will be able to advise and repair if necessary.