Effectiveness of AC

[tmarat]

I always felt like the AC isn't blowing cold enough air while on idle. About a month ago had the system evacuated and refilled again with 1250grams/44oz (has auxillary ac in the back). But compared to my brother's Honda Accord 2.4 2008, it still not good enough. At an ambient temp of about 37c/98F, manual controls at second speed, set to blow to front air vents only and no re-circulation the temperature at the right central air vent in idle is about 13C/55F with rear AC on, or 12C/54F with rear AC off. During city driving this drops to about 6-7C/43-44F, with rare drops to 4.5C/40F. For comparison accord at idle easily delivers 6C/43F, this is not touching the accelerator pedal at all, just idle. While driving temps are easily maintained at about 4.5C/40F.
Is something wrong with AC in my car, or is it just not that efficient?

 

[Flag Gibby]

Your readings sound about right. Remember you are not comparing two equivalent systems. The Explorer is moving a greater amount of air through a larger amount of duct work and trying to cool down a larger volume. I have had no problems with the vehicle getting too cold after about 10 minutes in Phoenix, Arizona 110F summer heat, but once the outside temperature gets above 80F I always have the system on recirculate. Also, second speed is really only good for maintaining the temperature once you get it where you want it; the third fan speed is where it needs to be at a minimum for maximum cooling with recirculation on.