Heater/AC

[nucferr]

Eveytime I get into my 2003 Z06 and turn on the Heat the A/C compressor comes on (light on button comes on). I have the unit not in auto with the mode directing the heat to the floor. I also have the unit set for outside air circulation.

I just press the A/C button and the compressor stays off.

I bought this in Sept and I remember on some of the warm days I would have this same issue (not in auto mode but the compressor coming on automatically when turning the unit on)

Any ideas?

PS: This is more of an annoyance then a problem as mine has been the best car I have ever owned!

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hithere,
Sometimes you may see this. It is normal based on the calibration of the HVAC system.
I would not worry, because when it is cold, it will not operate, unless there is sufficient temp change. The light will show that the AC system is ready to dehumidify if needed, but will NOT always operate the compressor.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[nucferr]

Thanks c4c5. I was hoping you had the time to reply.
PS Mine just turned 500 miles and I have enjoyed every mile!

 

[EHS]

As Paul said, the A/C helps dehumidify the air as well. If you look in the owner's manual, you'll also find that at certain outside air temperatures, the A/C will not automatically come on (the lower range).

Finally, since I still struggle with this, remember that the key fob also controls the A/C settings. Get everyhting set the way you like, then memorize 1 and/or 2.

That way, the next time you get in the car, it won't revert to the old setting, and you think it's doing something flaky.

It does work as advertised, just needs the additional steps.

 

[nucferr]

THANKS EHS.
I have read the section in the manual on heat and A/C and still don't completely understand the operation.

I guess I am more concerned about the performance of the car then the comforts. I just can't seem to grasp the operation of the heat and A/C.

 

[EHS]

THANKS EHS.
I have read the section in the manual on heat and A/C and still don't completely understand the operation.

I guess I am more concerned about the performance of the car then the comforts. I just can't seem to grasp the operation of the heat and A/C.

One thing to try is to sit in the car, and make a change to the A/C controls, then hit one of the memorize buttons. Then change something else, hit a different memorize button (say A/C on and A/C off). Then switch back and forth using the memo buttons and look at the heating controls while you do that. Watch what happens.

Also, push off. Then push "Auto." That will be the car's "recommended" setting and will most like also trigger the A/C. Using the "Mode" button switch to the way you like it (say heat only from the bottom, and push the A/C switch since you probably don't want that. The light will go out. Set the temperature to say, 75F. Then hit the memo button. This will keep that setting.

When you next enter the car, or start up in say, memo position 1, I guarantee the A/C will not come on.

Hope this helps.

 

[SixPak]

...also, if you are in the defrost mode, or dash/defrost, this will bring on the A/C compressor, weather permitting.(not freezing outside) this is normal. the theory being dehumidified air will clear up a foggy windshield faster than heated outdoor air.

 

[Stan The Man]

It is a good idea to have the AC compressor actually running for a short period regularily. I 'force' mine to run for a short period everytime the car is used that way I don't forget to run it. The reason is to ensure that the seal remains well lubricated, a dry seal will self destruct and very quickly allow the refrigerant to escape. The factory setup probably has this in mind, there is nothing wrong with using the memory trick, as long as you 'run' the compressor occassionaly. This point should also be considered when laying up your car for a long period.