Category Archives: AC Repair

4 Semi-Truck AC Problems and Causes

Air conditioning semi-truck repairs are a must when your AC is giving you problems. While in Texas, your semi-truck must have working air conditioning, especially during the summer. If you’re experiencing issues, try these 4 AC diagnostics tips to help identify the issue. Here at Carlos Truck Electric, we know the most common issues found in semi-truck air conditioners.

Our electrical mechanics can provide all the air conditioning semi-truck repairs you may need. You can schedule an appointment or bring your truck by the shop when you get a chance. We’ll perform a diagnostics check before locating the cause and implementing a long-lasting solution. In other words, we’ll get your AC working in no time.

Below are 4 of the most common signs of semi-truck AC problems we see in Texas. If you notice any of the following, we strongly advise that you come in for a diagnostics:

Freon Leaks

Freon is what helps keep your AC blowing cold air into the cabin of the truck. This non-combustible gas is used as a refrigerant in your AC system. Your AC system reuses freon over and over. As it evaporates, it cools the air inside the system before its recycled and reused.

Freon can leak out of your AC from:

  • condenser leak
  • ruptured hose
  • compressor leak

 It can be challenging to locate these leaks on your own, so get in touch with our semi-truck AC repair team. 

Contaminants in the System

Oil is the most common contaminant in AC systems in trucks, but mold and mildew may also be to blame. The signs of a contaminated semi-truck AC system include:

  • Lower cooling performance
  • Compressor making more noise
  • Lower or higher pressure
  • Premature compressor failure

What causes your AC system air to be contaminated is linked to dirty lines or gas contamination. The refrigerant in your AC must be at least 99% pure. Air can enter your system from a leak or from a previous service where the system was opened up.

It’s vital you have your AC contaminants removed and replaced with pure refrigerant before it costs you more repairs.

Compressor Failure

The AC compressor is what keeps the entire unit working and moves air throughout the whole system. It is the most crucial part of your semi-trucks air conditioning and also the most expensive. That’s why you must get it replaced sooner than later before any other costly repairs arise.

A compressor failure is caused by either age of the seals, a leak, clutch failure, or piston failure. All of these issues are often related to the age or condition of your AC unit. If that isn’t your case, our team will determine the cause. Carlos Truck Electric can perform any air conditioning semi-truck repairs in Texas.

Electrical Circuit Failure

The cause of your semi-truck air conditioning failure may not be tied directly to the unit but instead an electrical system. Your AC system could be suffering from a poor AC controller, pressure sensor issue, or fan override sensor problem. All of these areas can have an effect on the electrical circuit of your AC. Before moving forward with repairs, it’s critical to discover the cause as it will help catch potential future problems. 

If you’re in the Houston area, give Carlos Truck Electric a call. Our experienced mechanics can provide you with the air conditioning semi-truck repairs you require. Don’t get stuck in the Texas heat without a properly working AC in your truck. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment or drop by with your truck.

4 Fleet Truck AC Diagnostics and Repairs You Can Perform

Is your truck AC giving you problems? Here at Carlos Truck Electric, we know how important your air conditioning is to your comfort during the hot summer months. When it stops working, it can put a lot of stress and strain on your day-to-day tasks. We work closely with ACs, which is why we’ve outlined a handful of problems and troubleshooting tips below. If none of the solutions we offer work, we recommend contacting our team for fleet truck AC diagnostics and repairs!

Does Your AC Blow Hot Air?

No matter how far you turn the dial to the cold side, does the air conditioner continue to blow hot air? There are many causes for an AC to blow hot hair, but a common cause is low Freon, a non-combustible gas that’s used to refrigerate in AC systems. Freon is a name brand, but you can also use generic brands.

Simply stop by a hardware store or auto store for r134a refrigerant. You can recharge the system with the refrigerant by locating the low-pressure valve. Attach the refrigerant to the valve and charge. It is important to note you can overcharge the system, so be cautious.

Is the Air Pressure Low?

When your AC is blowing cool air at a lower pressure, it is likely caused by a leak or blockage. You can determine if it’s a leak by taking a peek underneath or inside your vehicle. The leak can make its way into the truck’s cabin, especially when there is excess condensation. The leak is from a damaged hose.

As for the blockage, your air filter is to blame. If your air filter is ignored as your AC keeps blowing cool air at a lower pressure, it can put extreme strain on it. As a result, you can expect your truck’s AC to fail and need additional repairs. Prevent this by changing your air filter sooner rather than later.

Is the AC Making Strange Noises?

Air conditioners will make some kind of noise while on but expect a problem when you’re hearing noises such as screeching, banging, or clicking. You can’t tell the problem from the sound itself, but it may be due to a broken part. In some cases, a fan could be the cause. Of course, this is a problem you won’t be able to diagnose yourself. You’ll have to bring it into our shop for Fleet Truck AC diagnostics and repairs.

Do You See Fluid Leaking Underneath Your Truck?

As we alluded to already, fluid underneath your truck most likely means your AC hoses or connections are leaking. We recommend inspecting all of your hoses and their fittings. Ensure they are in good condition and sealed properly. If this continues, we recommend bringing your truck into the shop for fleet truck AC diagnostics and repairs. We’ll perform a visual inspection alongside a dye test. This will allow us to locate the source of the truck by seeing where the dye is originating.

Hire a Professional for Fleet Truck AC Diagnostics and Repairs

If you were unable to perform your own fleet truck AC diagnostics and repairs, we recommend contacting our shop to schedule an appointment. Beat the heat by bringing your 18 wheeler or flatbed truck into our shop. Our mechanics have the experience and skills you need to get your AC back in working order. Give us a call at (832) 705-4889 or (832) 705-4887. You can also book an appointment by filling out our contact form. Regardless, our mechanics are here for all of your air conditioning needs!