Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
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 Hensley's Family Auto Service, 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.
Reviews
Wayne and his team are the best. They went above and beyond to provide great customer service and repairs at a very fair and reasonable price. I recommend them highly and will take all my cars to Wayne going forward. Scott Widener, 12/29/2023 |
These folks are amazing! I ran out of gas directly across from their shop and called to ask for a gas can to borrow. Instead of just letting me borrow a can, the gentleman came out with a can of fuel and filled my vehicle so that I could make it to a gas station. He would not accept any money for the help or the fuel. What a kind and generous gesture! Very wonderful people! Allison l Jeffrey, 01/09/2023 |
Great place! I had to get headlight bulbs put in my car. They did this for no charge which was incredibly nice of them. I have had my car serviced there in the past and will continue to do so. I highly recommend them for all your car needs. And as a bonus there is always some kind of animal to see! Sue Landes, 03/25/2022 |