How Does an AC Work in a Semi Truck?

The air conditioning system in a semi-truck is an integral part of the vehicle, providing drivers with the temperature control and comfort they need during long hauls. The AC system works by drawing air from outside the cab, cooling it, and then circulating it throughout the interior. By understanding how this complex system functions, truck owners can better maintain their vehicles and ensure that their AC is always functioning properly.

At the heart of any AC system is a compressor. This component draws in refrigerant gas from an evaporator coil inside the cab, compresses it into a hot vapor, and then sends it to a condenser outside the cab.

The condenser unit has several small fans which force air through a series of metal fins that help dissipate heat from the refrigerant gas. As this occurs, the gas starts to cool and liquefy into a liquid that can be circulated back into the cab.

Once inside the cab, this liquid flows through an expansion valve located near the evaporator coil. This valve controls how much liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator coil so that it can be evenly distributed throughout your truck’s interior. As warm air passes over these coils, it absorbs heat from them and starts to cool down.

At this point, a blower motor turns on to push cooled air throughout your truck’s interior via ducts or vents. Depending on your vehicle’s model year and make/model, you may also have additional components like humidity sensors or automatic climate control systems.

Conclusion:

How does an AC work in a semi-truck?

In short, an AC system draws in hot air from outside the cab using a compressor; cools it using a condenser unit; circulates it through an expansion valve inside your cab; and then pushes cooled air throughout your truck’s interior with a blower motor. With regular maintenance and upkeep, you can keep your AC system running smoothly for years to come!

Photo of author

Stephen Dunn