I have seen many threads, but no answers

does anyone know why the A/C seems to cut in and out in hot weather? It still blows cool just not COLD all the time. It doesn't seem to have any relationship with the compressor turning on.


just wondering....

 

no ideas, or just no interest?

 

I'm not an expert in this area, but I do believe that the compressor kicks off when the radiator could potentially ice up. That will prevent frost from blocking air flow through the radiator. In addition, it wouldn't surprise me if there was some sort of thermal breaker in the system that cycled the compressor to prevent it from overheating.

I'm sure there are people out there that know more about it than I do.

 

Is the cool air happening specifically at or after hard accelleration?

If so, that is because our compressor shuts down on hard accelleration to give you the most power. A few people have come up with tests to actually prove this. The best one so far is to go on an empty or straight road, and cruise at about 50 in 5th gear. Hit the gas, and keep one of your hands by the vent. You will feel the air get warmer gradually, but it will still stay "cool"

Try it out, its kinda cool!

If this is not the case, im stumped too!

 

it seems to happen just with normal city driving, no vtec.

icing up is possible but unlikely due to the humidity and ambient air temp down here.

 

Air conditioners cycle on and off all the time - there is an in-car sensor that makes a rudimentary attempt at being a climate control. Excessive cooling can lead to excessive fuel consumption and possible icing. There is also a high pressure sensor to guard against compressor damage, and a low-temp cut out.

 

thanks to all,

road rage, your knowledge continues to impress.