Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioning System Operation
The HVAC system provides the following features:
| • | Cooled or dehumidified air for the comfort of the occupants |
| • | Windshield defrosting |
| • | Side window defrosting |
During most operating conditions, outside air enters the vehicle in the following manner:
| • | The blower motor pulls in outside air through the air inlet grille below the windshield. |
| • | The forward movement of the vehicle forces in outside air. |
Air is pushed by the blower motor, through the HVAC module, along the following path:
- Through the evaporator core
- Through or around the heater core
- Into the passenger compartment
The refrigeration system will chill the evaporator to almost freezing. This action permits the operation of the following components:
| • | The air conditioner |
| • | The defroster |
As the air passes through the evaporator, the air temperature drops. Air moisture condenses on the evaporator core fins. The condensed moisture drips through a drain hole in the bottom of the HVAC module case and through a tube out onto the ground beneath the engine. This action dehumidifies the air inside the vehicle.
From the evaporator, some or all of the air may pass through the heater core. If the system is in the heating mode, the engine coolant warms the air. Any of the air which is not to be heated will mix with the heated air before entering the passenger compartment.
If the user selects MAX for the maximum air conditioning mode, most of the air that enters the blower is from the passenger compartment (recirculated). The air from the passenger compartment is usually cooler and dryer than the outside air.
