Like any system on the truck, preventive maintenance is important. The best way to avoid big repair bills is to make A/C maintenance a year-round effort.

• Whenever you have a truck in for scheduled maintenance, check the moisture indicator on the receiver-dryer’s sight glass. In general a dryer should be replaced once a year or every time the A/C system is opened.
• Keep filters clean and installed.
• Clean out the condenser so it is free of debris and contamination. But a high-pressure hose can damage fins and disrupt the airflow across the condenser, so be careful when you clean the grille area.
• Repair any damaged fins.
• Inspect the system for proper compressor belt tension and clutch voltage.
• One reason trucks repeatedly experience short A/C clutch or compressor life is low voltage at the clutch coil lead wire. Poor ground wire connections are an obvious source  - but some truckers are tapping into the electrical system to power hotel loads, which can steal the voltage an A/C clutch needs to do its job. So when testing voltage, re-create the full demand.
• All electrical connections should be kept clean. Install dielectric grease in any connectors that are frequently exposed to rain and road wash.
• Always replace O-rings and seals when a connection is broken.
• In the case of a compressor failure, the system should be flushed and the system components back-flushed to remove any potential compressor debris from clogging system heat exchangers or expansion devices.
• Always follow manufacturers’ recommended evacuation and charging procedures.
• Last but not lease, run you’re A/C system. Frequent and regular use keeps the seals lubricated and the oil in circulation helping maintain long and reliable life.