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 Hardy Vehicle Designs, 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.
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What Our Customers Are Saying
Rex walked around my car, squinted once, kicked a tire for dramatic effect, and gave me an estimate before I even finished explaining what happened. Pretty sure he has X-ray vision. If your car is bent, dented, scratched, or looks like you let a raccoon borrow it, ask for Rex.
Tempe, AZ
Went in for an oil change and the service like always was great. Thank you HVD!
Tempe, AZ
I came in for my first time last week and had an experience that exceeded my expectations. From starting out receiving a smile and a cold bottle of water, so a deep review of the challenges I was experiencing with my classic car. The team carved out a substantial amount of time for me on a Saturday and their entire crew rallied around my situation to not only give me immediate advice on the mechanical issues I was experiencing, but provided some long-term strategy on my car. Ultimately, their advice is going to serve me in the years to come. I had an amazing experience that I won't forget. I look forward to staying in touch and sharing updates with them on my car. Thanks Tyler and team!
Classic Car Repair, near Tempe, WA
I had my BMW serviced at Hardy Vehicle Design today for a motor mount replacement, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Colby and Tyler were friendly, professional, and had my car fixed quickly at a great price. BMW would have charged me significantly more, but Tyler worked with me and gave me a much better deal. They earned my trust, and Hardy Vehicle Design is now my go-to shop for major vehicle repairs. Highly recommend!
Tempe, AZ
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