There are several types of car air conditioners, the most common of which is the regular piston air conditioner, found in older cars from the 1990s to the early 2000s. Its operating principle is simple: it operates at a constant power output and produces a constant, unchanging cooling.
The cooling temperature of the car’s interior is controlled by decreasing and increasing the fan speed. If passengers feel too cold, they turn the air conditioner off.
Another type of air conditioner uses pistons, but it’s better controlled. It’s known as an automatic air conditioner. Its operating principle is similar to that of a home air conditioner.
You set the desired temperature, and it operates to provide that heat. Once it reaches that temperature, it shuts off. When the temperature rises, it turns on to provide the desired temperature. This is the same principle as a home air conditioner.
Another type is electric, and it doesn’t require the car engine to operate. This type is commonly found in trucks, buses, and some vehicles. It doesn’t require the car engine to operate, and is usually used when the vehicle is stationary. Its operating principle is similar to that of a home air conditioner. You set the desired temperature, and it operates to provide that temperature and shuts off once it reaches that temperature.
The best way to operate a piston air conditioner is in idle mode, as it rotates with the engine. If the car’s engine is running at a high speed, for example, 3,000 rpm, and you suddenly turn on the air conditioner, it will reach this speed in less than a second. This will damage the air conditioner over time.
While a car’s air conditioner can handle high speeds, it is severely affected by them and will not last long. Therefore, it is best to operate it in idle mode. Try not to drive too fast and do not overload the engine while the air conditioner is running, as this will affect its performance.
A common phenomenon among car owners is to stop for long periods with the air conditioner running. This is wrong because the car’s engine needs constant cooling, and stopping with the air conditioner running significantly raises the engine temperature, which can cause numerous problems for the car’s engine.
